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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 inclusion, the Gaelic tongue, and the legacy of decolonisation.

In her inauguration address, Connolly presented a leftwing alternative diverging from the mainstream political consensus.

“Many assumed that it was an impossible step, that our ideas were too radical – contrary to the dominant discourse,” she stated, pointing to her decisive election win.

“Through nationwide dialogues, however, it became evident that the mainstream message did not represent people’s hopes and fears. Repeatedly, people spoke of how it tended to suppress, to other, to label, to shut out and to stifle critical thinking.”

On a ceremonial occasion at the historic venue, the 68-year-old former barrister affirmed that as Ireland’s 10th president, she would amplify diverse perspectives and would promote environmental measures, acceptance, and a resurgence of Irish culture.

“The people have spoken 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 differences are celebrated, where eco-friendly policies are urgently implemented, and where a housing is guaranteed for all.”

The presidential race outcome shocked the political establishment. The independent leftwing legislator united opposition leftwing parties, mobilised the youth, and defeated the ruling party’s candidate by securing a substantial majority.

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

In a venue filled with government figures, ambassadors, and other dignitaries, the president lamented “the normalisation of war and atrocities.”

Commending Ireland’s neutrality—a potential source of friction with the government—she asserted: “Our experience of colonisation and resistance of a catastrophic man-made famine gives us a deep empathy of loss, hunger, and war and a mandate for Ireland to lead.”

Connolly also hailed the Good Friday agreement and referenced article 3 of Ireland’s constitution that supports national unity with agreement. One political party declined to send a representative but said no snub was intended.

Speaking in Gaelic, Connolly reaffirmed a pledge to prioritise the language in the official home. “Gaelic will not be whispered in the residence, it will have first place as a language of business.”

No country can voice its aspirations if the native language spoken by ancestors was extinguished, she commented. “It has been put in second place without sufficient respect or acknowledgement. The hearts of our people were dampened when they were prevented from speaking their mother tongue. It’s a language that conveys emotion and sentiment with each phrase.”

A artillery tribute was sounded as the head of state received the seal of office.