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The newly inaugurated president has vowed to reshape Ireland into a “nation that lives up to its ideals” by advocating for inclusion, the Gaelic tongue, and the legacy of decolonisation.

In her inauguration address, the president outlined 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 radical – at odds with the prevailing narrative,” she stated, referencing her landslide victory.

“In shared conversations, however, it became clear that the dominant narrative did not reflect people’s values and concerns. Time and time again, people spoke of how it served to silence, to marginalise, to label, to exclude and to hinder independent thought.”

On a ceremonial occasion 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 advance climate action, tolerance, and a resurgence of Irish culture.

“The people have spoken and have given their president a powerful mandate to voice shared aspirations for a renewed nation, a republic true to its principles where each person matters and differences are celebrated, where eco-friendly policies are urgently implemented, and where a home is a fundamental human right.”

Connolly’s election shocked the political establishment. The independent leftwing legislator brought together progressive factions, energised young voters, 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 practice the new president will likely uphold.

In a ballroom packed with officials, ambassadors, and distinguished guests, Connolly expressed regret over “the normalisation of war and atrocities.”

Praising Ireland’s non-alignment—a possible point of disagreement with the government—she said: “Our experience of colonisation and struggle against historic hardships gives us a lived understanding of loss, hunger, and war and a call for national leadership.”

The president additionally praised the peace accord and cited article 3 of Ireland’s constitution that supports national unity with consent. One major group did not attend but clarified it was not a deliberate omission.

Speaking in Gaelic, she repeated a commitment to elevate Irish in the presidential office and residence. “Gaelic will not be whispered in the residence, it will have first place as a language of business.”

No nation can express its desires if the indigenous tongue spoken by ancestors was lost, she said. “It has been relegated without due honour or acknowledgement. The national spirit were dampened when they were made to stop using their own language. It’s a language that expresses feelings and sentiment with each phrase.”

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