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The newly inaugurated president has pledged to transform Ireland into a “republic worthy of its name” by advocating for inclusion, the Gaelic tongue, and the legacy of decolonisation.

During her swearing-in speech, Connolly outlined a leftwing alternative contrasting with the centre-right orthodoxy.

“Many assumed that it was too great a leap, that our ideas were too far out – contrary to the prevailing narrative,” she remarked, referencing her landslide victory.

“Through nationwide dialogues, however, it became clear that the mainstream message did not reflect people’s hopes and fears. Repeatedly, people spoke of how it served to silence, to other, to label, to shut out and to hinder independent thought.”

On a day marked by pomp at the historic venue, the 68-year-old former barrister affirmed that as Ireland’s 10th president, she would amplify diverse perspectives and would advance environmental measures, tolerance, and a resurgence of Irish culture.

“The people have spoken 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 sustainable solutions are urgently implemented, and where a home is a fundamental human right.”

The presidential race outcome 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 presidency is a largely ceremonial post, the previous officeholder had stretched the constraints, turning it into a voice for causes—a tradition Connolly is expected to continue.

In a ballroom packed with government figures, diplomats, and distinguished guests, the president expressed regret over “the normalisation of war and atrocities.”

Commending Ireland’s neutrality—a potential source of friction with the government—she asserted: “Our experience of colonisation and struggle against historic hardships gives us a deep empathy of dispossession, hunger, and war and a mandate for Ireland to lead.”

Connolly also hailed the Good Friday agreement and referenced constitutional provisions that supports national unity with consent. One political party did not attend but clarified it was not a deliberate omission.

Speaking in Gaelic, she reaffirmed a pledge to prioritise the language in the official home. “Irish will not be spoken in a low voice in the residence, it will have primary status as a language of business.”

No nation can voice its aspirations if the native language used forebears was lost, she commented. “It has been relegated without due honour or acknowledgement. The hearts of our people were quenched when they were made to stop using their own language. It’s a language that conveys emotion and meaning with every word.”

A artillery tribute was sounded as the new president received the seal of office.