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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 Gaelic tongue, and the history of independence.

In her inauguration address, the president presented a leftwing alternative contrasting with the mainstream political consensus.

“We were led to believe that it was an impossible step, that our ideas were too far out – at odds with the dominant discourse,” she stated, referencing her landslide victory.

“Through nationwide dialogues, however, it became clear that the dominant narrative did not reflect people’s hopes and fears. Time and time again, people spoke of how it tended to suppress, to other, to label, to shut out and to hinder independent thought.”

On a day marked by pomp at the historic venue, the 68-year-old former barrister declared that as Ireland’s new head of state, she would amplify diverse perspectives and would advance environmental measures, tolerance, 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 worthy of its name where everyone is valued and differences are celebrated, where eco-friendly policies are urgently implemented, and where a home is a fundamental human right.”

The presidential race outcome surprised traditional parties. The non-aligned progressive candidate brought together progressive factions, energised young voters, and trounced the ruling party’s candidate by securing a substantial majority.

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

In a ballroom packed with government figures, diplomats, and other dignitaries, the president lamented “the normalisation of war and atrocities.”

Commending Ireland’s non-alignment—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 loss, famine, and war and a mandate for Ireland to lead.”

The president additionally praised the peace accord and referenced article 3 of Ireland’s constitution that supports national unity with consent. One political party declined to send a representative but clarified it was not a deliberate omission.

Speaking in Gaelic, Connolly reaffirmed a pledge to prioritise the language 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 language of business.”

No country can voice its aspirations if the native language used forebears was lost, she said. “It has been put in second place without due honour or acknowledgement. The national spirit were dampened when they were made to stop using their mother tongue. It’s a language that expresses feelings and sentiment with each phrase.”

A 21-gun salute was sounded as the new president received the seal of office.