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

In her inauguration address, Connolly presented 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 stated, pointing to her decisive election win.

“In shared conversations, however, it became evident that the dominant narrative did not represent people’s values and concerns. Time and time again, people spoke of how it tended to suppress, to marginalise, to categorise, to shut out and to hinder independent thought.”

On a ceremonial occasion at the historic venue, the experienced legal professional declared that as Ireland’s 10th president, she would ensure “all voices” were heard and would advance climate action, acceptance, and a Gaelic revival.

“The people have spoken and have given their president a powerful mandate to articulate their vision for a renewed nation, a republic true to its principles where each person matters and differences are celebrated, where sustainable solutions are swiftly enacted, and where a home is a fundamental human right.”

Connolly’s election surprised traditional parties. The independent leftwing legislator united opposition leftwing parties, energised young voters, and defeated the ruling party’s candidate by securing a substantial majority.

Though the role is primarily symbolic, the outgoing president had expanded its influence, turning it into a platform for issues—a practice the new president will likely uphold.

In a ballroom packed with government figures, diplomats, and other dignitaries, Connolly lamented “the acceptance of conflict and atrocities.”

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 lived understanding of loss, famine, 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 agreement. One political party declined to send a representative but clarified it was not a deliberate omission.

Switching to Irish, Connolly reaffirmed a pledge to elevate Irish in the presidential office and residence. “Gaelic will not be whispered in the residence, it will have first place as a language of business.”

No country can voice its aspirations if the native language spoken by ancestors was lost, she commented. “It has been put in second place without sufficient respect or recognition. The hearts of our people were dampened when they were prevented from speaking their own language. It’s a language that expresses feelings and meaning with every word.”

A 21-gun salute was fired as the new president received the seal of office.