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The newly inaugurated president has pledged to reshape Ireland into a “nation that lives up to its ideals” by championing inclusion, the Irish language, and the legacy of decolonisation.

During her swearing-in speech, Connolly presented a progressive vision diverging from the mainstream political consensus.

“Many assumed that it was too great a leap, that our ideas were too far out – contrary to the dominant discourse,” she stated, pointing to her landslide victory.

“Through nationwide dialogues, however, it became clear that the dominant narrative did not reflect people’s values and concerns. Repeatedly, people spoke of how it served to silence, to marginalise, to label, to shut out and to stifle critical thinking.”

On a day marked by pomp at the historic venue, the 68-year-old former barrister declared that as Ireland’s 10th president, she would amplify diverse perspectives and would promote climate action, acceptance, and a Gaelic revival.

“Voters have made their choice and have given their president a strong endorsement to voice shared aspirations for a new republic, a republic true to its principles where each person matters and diversity is cherished, where eco-friendly policies are swiftly enacted, and where a housing is guaranteed for all.”

Connolly’s election surprised traditional parties. The independent leftwing legislator brought together progressive factions, energised young voters, and trounced the mainstream opponent by winning 64% of the vote.

Though the role is primarily symbolic, the previous officeholder had stretched the constraints, turning it into a platform for issues—a tradition Connolly is expected to continue.

In a ballroom packed with government figures, diplomats, and other dignitaries, Connolly lamented “the normalisation of war and genocide.”

Praising Ireland’s neutrality—a potential source of friction with the government—she asserted: “Our experience of colonisation and resistance of a catastrophic man-made famine gives us a deep empathy of loss, hunger, and conflict and a mandate for Ireland to lead.”

Connolly also hailed the peace accord and referenced constitutional provisions that supports national unity with consent. One political party declined to send a representative but said no snub was intended.

Speaking in Gaelic, Connolly reaffirmed a pledge to elevate Irish in the official home. “Irish will not be spoken in a low voice in the Áras, it will have first place as a language of business.”

No country can voice its aspirations if the indigenous tongue spoken by ancestors was lost, she commented. “It has been relegated without sufficient respect or acknowledgement. The national spirit were dampened when they were made to stop using their mother tongue. It’s a language that conveys emotion and sentiment with each phrase.”

A artillery tribute was sounded as the head of state received the seal of office.