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The newly inaugurated president has vowed to transform Ireland into a “republic worthy of its name” by advocating for inclusion, the Gaelic tongue, and the legacy of decolonisation.

During her swearing-in speech, Connolly outlined 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 radical – contrary to the prevailing narrative,” she stated, pointing to her decisive election win.

“Through nationwide dialogues, 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 shut out and to hinder independent thought.”

On a day marked by pomp at Dublin Castle, the experienced legal professional declared that as Ireland’s 10th president, 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 powerful mandate to voice shared aspirations for a new republic, a republic true to its principles where everyone is valued and differences are celebrated, where sustainable solutions are urgently implemented, and where a home is a fundamental human right.”

Connolly’s election shocked the political establishment. The non-aligned progressive candidate brought together progressive factions, mobilised the youth, and trounced the mainstream opponent by securing a substantial majority.

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

In a ballroom packed with government figures, ambassadors, and other dignitaries, Connolly lamented “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 resistance of a catastrophic man-made famine gives us a deep empathy of loss, famine, and conflict and a mandate for Ireland to lead.”

Connolly also hailed the peace accord and cited constitutional provisions that supports national unity with agreement. One major group did not attend but said no snub was intended.

Speaking in Gaelic, she repeated a commitment to elevate Irish 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 nation can voice its aspirations if the native language used forebears was extinguished, she said. “It has been relegated without sufficient respect or recognition. The hearts of our people were dampened when they were made to stop using their own language. It’s a language that expresses feelings and sentiment with every word.”

A 21-gun salute was fired as the head of state received the seal of office.