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The newly inaugurated president has vowed to reshape Ireland into a “republic worthy of its name” by advocating for inclusion, the Irish language, 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 radical – contrary to the prevailing narrative,” she remarked, referencing her decisive election win.

“Through nationwide dialogues, however, it became clear 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 other, to label, to exclude and to hinder independent thought.”

On a ceremonial occasion at Dublin Castle, the experienced legal professional declared that as Ireland’s new head of state, she would amplify diverse perspectives 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 voice shared aspirations for a renewed nation, a republic worthy of its name where each person matters and diversity is cherished, where sustainable solutions are swiftly enacted, and where a home is a fundamental human right.”

The presidential race outcome shocked the political establishment. The non-aligned progressive candidate united opposition leftwing parties, mobilised the youth, and defeated 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 platform for issues—a practice Connolly is expected to continue.

In a venue filled with officials, ambassadors, and other dignitaries, the president expressed regret over “the normalisation of war and atrocities.”

Praising Ireland’s non-alignment—a potential source of friction with the government—she said: “Our history under foreign rule and resistance of a catastrophic man-made famine gives us a deep empathy of loss, hunger, and conflict and a mandate for Ireland to lead.”

The president additionally praised the peace accord and referenced constitutional provisions that supports national unity with agreement. One major group declined to send a representative but said no snub was intended.

Switching to Irish, she reaffirmed a pledge to prioritise the language in the official home. “Gaelic will not be whispered in the Áras, it will have primary status as a language of business.”

No nation can voice its aspirations if the native language used forebears was extinguished, she commented. “It has been put in second place without sufficient respect or recognition. The hearts of our people were quenched when they were made to stop using their mother tongue. It’s a language that expresses feelings and sentiment with every word.”

A 21-gun salute was fired as the new president was formally invested.