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The newly inaugurated president has pledged to reshape Ireland into a “nation that lives up to its ideals” by advocating for diversity, the Irish language, and the legacy of decolonisation.

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

“We were led to believe that it was too great a leap, that our ideas were too far out – contrary to the prevailing narrative,” she stated, referencing her decisive election win.

“In shared conversations, 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 served to silence, to marginalise, to categorise, to shut out and to stifle critical thinking.”

On a day marked by pomp at Dublin Castle, the experienced legal professional affirmed that as Ireland’s new head of state, she would amplify diverse perspectives and would promote environmental measures, acceptance, and a resurgence of Irish culture.

“Voters have made their choice and have given their president a strong endorsement to articulate their vision for a new republic, a republic worthy of its name where everyone is valued and differences are celebrated, where sustainable solutions are urgently implemented, and where a housing is guaranteed for all.”

The presidential race outcome shocked the political establishment. The non-aligned progressive candidate united opposition leftwing parties, energised young voters, and trounced the ruling party’s candidate by securing a substantial majority.

Though the presidency is a largely ceremonial post, the outgoing president had stretched the constraints, turning it into a platform for issues—a tradition the new president will likely uphold.

In a venue filled with government figures, ambassadors, and distinguished guests, the president expressed regret over “the acceptance of conflict and atrocities.”

Commending Ireland’s non-alignment—a possible point of disagreement with the government—she said: “Our history under foreign rule and resistance of a catastrophic man-made famine gives us a deep empathy of dispossession, famine, and conflict and a mandate for Ireland to lead.”

Connolly also hailed the Good Friday agreement and cited constitutional provisions that espouses a united Ireland with agreement. One major group did not attend but clarified it was not a deliberate omission.

Speaking in Gaelic, Connolly repeated a commitment to elevate Irish in the official home. “Gaelic will not be whispered in the Áras, it will have first place as a language of business.”

No country can voice its aspirations if the native language used forebears was lost, she commented. “It has been relegated without sufficient respect or acknowledgement. The hearts of our people were dampened when they were prevented from speaking their own language. It’s a language that conveys emotion and meaning with each phrase.”

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