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The newly inaugurated president has pledged to transform Ireland into a “republic worthy of its name” by championing inclusion, the Irish language, and the history of independence.

During her swearing-in speech, the president presented a progressive vision contrasting with the mainstream political consensus.

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

“In shared conversations, however, it became clear that the dominant narrative did not reflect people’s values and concerns. Repeatedly, people spoke of how it tended to suppress, to other, to categorise, to exclude and to hinder independent thought.”

On a day marked by pomp 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 resurgence of Irish culture.

“The people have spoken and have given their president a powerful mandate to voice shared aspirations for a renewed nation, a republic worthy of its name where everyone is valued and differences are celebrated, 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, energised young voters, and defeated the mainstream opponent by winning 64% of the vote.

Though the role is primarily symbolic, the outgoing president had expanded its influence, turning it into a platform for issues—a practice Connolly is expected to continue.

In a ballroom packed with officials, diplomats, and other dignitaries, Connolly expressed regret over “the acceptance of conflict and genocide.”

Praising Ireland’s non-alignment—a potential source of friction with the government—she said: “Our history under foreign rule and struggle against historic hardships gives us a deep empathy of dispossession, hunger, and conflict and a mandate for Ireland to lead.”

The president additionally praised the Good Friday agreement and referenced article 3 of Ireland’s constitution that espouses a united Ireland with agreement. One political party did not attend but clarified it was not a deliberate omission.

Switching to Irish, she repeated a commitment to prioritise the language in the presidential office and residence. “Irish will not be spoken in a low voice in the residence, it will have primary status as a working language.”

No country can express its desires if the native language spoken by ancestors was lost, she said. “It has been put in second place without due honour 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.