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The newly inaugurated president has pledged to transform Ireland into a “nation that lives up to its ideals” by advocating for inclusion, the Gaelic tongue, and the history of independence.

In her inauguration address, Connolly presented a leftwing alternative diverging from the centre-right orthodoxy.

“We were led to believe that it was too great a leap, that our ideas were too far out – contrary to the dominant discourse,” she remarked, referencing 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 tended to suppress, to marginalise, to label, to exclude and to hinder independent thought.”

On a day marked by pomp at Dublin Castle, the 68-year-old former barrister declared that as Ireland’s new head of state, she would ensure “all voices” were heard and would promote climate action, tolerance, and a resurgence of Irish culture.

“Voters have made their choice and have given their president a strong endorsement to articulate their vision for a renewed nation, a republic true to its principles where each person matters and differences are celebrated, where eco-friendly policies are swiftly enacted, 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 mainstream opponent by securing a substantial majority.

Though the role is primarily symbolic, the outgoing president had stretched the constraints, turning it into a voice for causes—a tradition Connolly is expected to continue.

In a venue filled with officials, diplomats, and distinguished guests, the president expressed regret over “the acceptance of conflict and atrocities.”

Praising Ireland’s non-alignment—a potential source of friction with the government—she said: “Our experience of colonisation and resistance of a catastrophic man-made famine gives us a deep empathy of dispossession, hunger, and war and a call for national leadership.”

The president additionally praised the Good Friday agreement and referenced article 3 of Ireland’s constitution that supports national unity with agreement. One major group declined to send a representative but said no snub was intended.

Speaking in Gaelic, she reaffirmed a pledge to prioritise the language in the presidential office and residence. “Irish will not be spoken in a low voice in the Áras, it will have first place as a working language.”

No country can voice its aspirations if the native language used forebears was extinguished, she said. “It has been relegated without due honour or recognition. The national spirit were quenched when they were made to stop using their mother tongue. It’s a language that conveys emotion and meaning with every word.”

A artillery tribute was fired as the head of state was formally invested.