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

In her inauguration address, Connolly presented a progressive vision contrasting with the centre-right orthodoxy.

“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, referencing her decisive election win.

“Through nationwide dialogues, however, it became evident that the dominant narrative did not represent people’s hopes and fears. Time and time again, people spoke of how it tended to suppress, to marginalise, to label, to shut out and to stifle critical thinking.”

On a ceremonial occasion at Dublin Castle, the 68-year-old former barrister declared that as Ireland’s new head of state, she would amplify diverse perspectives and would promote climate action, acceptance, and a Gaelic revival.

“The people have spoken and have given their president a strong endorsement to articulate their vision 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.”

Connolly’s election shocked the political establishment. The non-aligned progressive candidate united opposition leftwing parties, mobilised the youth, and trounced the ruling party’s candidate by securing a substantial majority.

Though the role is primarily symbolic, the previous officeholder had stretched the constraints, turning it into a voice for causes—a tradition the new president will likely uphold.

In a venue filled with government figures, ambassadors, and distinguished guests, Connolly lamented “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 deep empathy of loss, hunger, and conflict and a call for national leadership.”

Connolly also hailed the peace accord and cited constitutional provisions that espouses a united Ireland with consent. One political party did not attend but said no snub was intended.

Speaking in Gaelic, Connolly 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 indigenous tongue used forebears was extinguished, she said. “It has been put in second place without due honour or recognition. The hearts of our people were quenched when they were prevented from speaking their own language. It’s a language that conveys emotion and sentiment with every word.”

A artillery tribute was fired as the new president was formally invested.