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

During her swearing-in speech, Connolly outlined a leftwing alternative diverging from the centre-right orthodoxy.

“Many assumed that it was too great a leap, that our ideas were too far out – contrary to the dominant discourse,” she stated, pointing to her landslide victory.

“Through nationwide dialogues, however, it became clear that the mainstream message did not represent people’s hopes and fears. Time and time again, people spoke of how it tended to suppress, to marginalise, to categorise, to exclude and to hinder independent thought.”

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

“Voters have made their choice 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 sustainable solutions are urgently implemented, and where a housing is guaranteed for all.”

The presidential race outcome surprised traditional parties. The non-aligned progressive candidate brought together progressive factions, mobilised the youth, and trounced the mainstream opponent 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 tradition Connolly is expected to continue.

In a ballroom packed with government figures, diplomats, and other dignitaries, Connolly expressed regret over “the acceptance of conflict and atrocities.”

Commending Ireland’s neutrality—a possible point of disagreement with the government—she said: “Our history under foreign rule and struggle against historic hardships gives us a lived understanding of dispossession, hunger, and war and a mandate for Ireland to lead.”

The president additionally praised the Good Friday agreement and cited constitutional provisions that supports national unity with consent. One major group did not attend but clarified it was not a deliberate omission.

Switching to Irish, Connolly reaffirmed a pledge to prioritise the language in the official home. “Irish will not be spoken in a low voice in the Áras, it will have primary status as a working language.”

No nation can voice its aspirations if the indigenous tongue used forebears was lost, she said. “It has been relegated without sufficient respect or acknowledgement. The hearts of our people were quenched when they were made to stop using their own language. It’s a language that conveys emotion and meaning with every word.”

A artillery tribute was sounded as the head of state was formally invested.