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The newly inaugurated president has pledged to transform Ireland into a “republic worthy of its name” by championing diversity, the Irish language, and the legacy of decolonisation.

In her inauguration address, Connolly presented a progressive vision contrasting with the centre-right orthodoxy.

“We were led to believe that it was too great a leap, that our ideas were too far out – at odds with the prevailing narrative,” she stated, pointing to her landslide victory.

“In shared conversations, however, it became evident that the dominant narrative did not represent people’s values and concerns. Repeatedly, people spoke of how it served to silence, to other, to categorise, to shut out and to hinder independent thought.”

On a ceremonial occasion at Dublin Castle, the experienced legal professional affirmed that as Ireland’s 10th president, she would ensure “all voices” were heard and would advance climate action, tolerance, and a resurgence of Irish culture.

“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 differences are celebrated, where sustainable solutions are urgently implemented, and where a home is a fundamental human right.”

Connolly’s election surprised traditional parties. The non-aligned progressive candidate brought together progressive factions, mobilised the youth, and trounced the ruling party’s candidate by winning 64% of the vote.

Though the presidency is a largely ceremonial post, the outgoing president had stretched the constraints, turning it into a platform for issues—a practice the new president will likely uphold.

In a ballroom packed with officials, ambassadors, and other dignitaries, Connolly lamented “the acceptance of conflict and genocide.”

Commending Ireland’s neutrality—a possible point of disagreement with the government—she said: “Our history under foreign rule and struggle against historic hardships gives us a deep empathy of dispossession, hunger, and war and a call for national leadership.”

Connolly also hailed the Good Friday agreement and referenced article 3 of Ireland’s constitution that espouses a united Ireland with agreement. One political party did not attend but said no snub was intended.

Switching to Irish, she repeated a commitment to elevate Irish in the presidential office and residence. “Gaelic will not be whispered in the Áras, it will have primary status as a language of business.”

No nation can express its desires if the native language spoken by ancestors was lost, she commented. “It has been relegated without due honour or acknowledgement. The hearts of our people were quenched when they were prevented from speaking their own language. It’s a language that expresses feelings and meaning with each phrase.”

A 21-gun salute was fired as the head of state received the seal of office.