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

In her inauguration address, Connolly presented a leftwing alternative 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 dominant discourse,” she remarked, referencing her decisive election win.

“In shared conversations, however, it became evident that the mainstream message did not represent people’s values and concerns. Repeatedly, 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 68-year-old former barrister affirmed that as Ireland’s new head of state, she would ensure “all voices” were heard and would promote climate action, tolerance, 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 renewed nation, a republic worthy of its name where everyone is valued and diversity is cherished, where sustainable solutions are swiftly enacted, and where a housing is guaranteed for all.”

Connolly’s election shocked the political establishment. The independent leftwing legislator united opposition leftwing parties, mobilised the youth, and defeated the mainstream opponent by winning 64% of the vote.

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

In a ballroom packed with officials, diplomats, and other dignitaries, Connolly lamented “the normalisation of war and genocide.”

Commending Ireland’s neutrality—a potential source of friction with the government—she said: “Our experience of colonisation and struggle against historic hardships gives us a deep empathy of loss, hunger, and conflict and a call for national leadership.”

The president additionally praised the Good Friday agreement and cited article 3 of Ireland’s constitution that supports national unity with agreement. One political party did not attend but said no snub was intended.

Switching to Irish, 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 Áras, it will have first place as a working language.”

No nation can express its desires if the native language used forebears was lost, she said. “It has been relegated without due honour or acknowledgement. The national spirit were quenched 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 fired as the new president received the seal of office.