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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 history of independence.

During her swearing-in speech, the president presented a progressive vision 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 prevailing narrative,” she remarked, pointing to her decisive election win.

“Through nationwide dialogues, however, it became clear that the dominant narrative did not represent people’s values and concerns. Repeatedly, people spoke of how it served to silence, to other, to label, to shut out and to hinder independent thought.”

On a ceremonial occasion at Dublin Castle, the experienced legal professional declared that as Ireland’s new head of state, she would amplify diverse perspectives and would promote climate action, acceptance, and a resurgence of Irish culture.

“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 each person matters and diversity is cherished, where eco-friendly policies are urgently implemented, 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 trounced the ruling party’s candidate by winning 64% of the vote.

Though the role is primarily symbolic, the previous officeholder had expanded its influence, turning it into a voice for causes—a tradition Connolly is expected to continue.

In a venue filled with government figures, diplomats, and distinguished guests, Connolly lamented “the normalisation of war and atrocities.”

Praising Ireland’s non-alignment—a potential source of friction 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 call for national leadership.”

Connolly also hailed the peace accord and cited article 3 of Ireland’s constitution that supports national unity with consent. One major group 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 Áras, it will have first place as a working language.”

No nation can express its desires if the indigenous tongue used forebears was extinguished, she commented. “It has been put in second place without due honour 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 21-gun salute was fired as the head of state was formally invested.