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The newly inaugurated president has vowed to transform Ireland into a “nation that lives up to its ideals” by advocating for inclusion, the Irish language, and the history of independence.

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

“We were led to believe that it was too great a leap, that our ideas were too far out – at odds with the prevailing narrative,” she stated, pointing to her landslide victory.

“In shared conversations, however, it became clear that the dominant narrative did not represent people’s hopes and fears. Time and time again, people spoke of how it served to silence, to marginalise, to label, to shut out and to stifle critical thinking.”

On a day marked by pomp at Dublin Castle, the experienced legal professional declared that as Ireland’s 10th president, she would ensure “all voices” were heard and would advance climate action, tolerance, and a resurgence of Irish culture.

“The people have spoken and have given their president a strong endorsement to articulate their vision for a new republic, a republic true to its principles where everyone is valued and diversity is cherished, where eco-friendly policies are swiftly enacted, and where a housing is guaranteed for all.”

Connolly’s election shocked the political establishment. The independent leftwing legislator brought together progressive factions, energised young voters, and trounced the mainstream opponent by securing a substantial majority.

Though the presidency is a largely ceremonial post, the outgoing president had expanded its influence, turning it into a voice for causes—a tradition the new president will likely uphold.

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

Commending Ireland’s non-alignment—a possible point of disagreement with the government—she asserted: “Our history under foreign rule and struggle against historic hardships gives us a deep empathy of dispossession, 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 agreement. One major group did not attend but clarified it was not a deliberate omission.

Speaking in Gaelic, she repeated a commitment to elevate Irish in the official home. “Gaelic will not be whispered in the residence, it will have first place as a working language.”

No country can express its desires if the indigenous tongue spoken by ancestors was extinguished, she said. “It has been relegated without sufficient respect 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 every word.”

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