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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.

In her inauguration address, Connolly outlined a leftwing alternative contrasting with the mainstream political consensus.

“We were led to believe that it was an impossible step, that our ideas were too far out – contrary to the dominant discourse,” she stated, referencing her landslide victory.

“Through nationwide dialogues, however, it became evident that the dominant narrative did not reflect people’s values and concerns. Time and time again, people spoke of how it served to silence, to marginalise, to categorise, 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 10th president, she would ensure “all voices” were heard and would advance climate action, tolerance, and a Gaelic revival.

“Voters have made their choice and have given their president a powerful mandate to voice shared aspirations for a new republic, a republic worthy of its name where everyone is valued and differences are celebrated, where sustainable solutions are swiftly enacted, and where a housing is guaranteed for all.”

The presidential race outcome surprised traditional parties. The independent leftwing legislator united opposition leftwing parties, energised young voters, and trounced the mainstream opponent by winning 64% of the vote.

Though the role is primarily symbolic, the previous officeholder had expanded its influence, turning it into a voice for causes—a tradition Connolly is expected to continue.

In a venue filled with officials, ambassadors, and other dignitaries, Connolly expressed regret over “the acceptance of conflict and atrocities.”

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 lived understanding of loss, famine, and war and a call for national leadership.”

The president additionally praised the peace accord and cited article 3 of Ireland’s constitution that supports national unity with consent. One political party did not attend but said no snub was intended.

Speaking in Gaelic, she repeated a commitment to elevate Irish 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 indigenous tongue spoken by ancestors was lost, she said. “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 conveys emotion and meaning with each phrase.”

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