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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 diversity, the Irish language, and the history of independence.

In her inauguration address, Connolly presented a leftwing alternative contrasting with the centre-right orthodoxy.

“We were led to believe that it was too great a leap, that our ideas were too far out – at odds with the prevailing narrative,” she stated, referencing her decisive election win.

“In shared conversations, however, it became clear that the mainstream message did not reflect 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 ceremonial occasion at the historic venue, the 68-year-old former barrister affirmed that as Ireland’s 10th president, she would amplify diverse perspectives and would promote environmental measures, acceptance, and a Gaelic revival.

“Voters have made their choice and have given their president a powerful mandate to articulate their vision for a renewed nation, a republic true to its principles 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 surprised traditional parties. 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 practice Connolly is expected to continue.

In a venue filled with government figures, ambassadors, and distinguished guests, Connolly lamented “the acceptance of conflict and atrocities.”

Commending 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 deep empathy of dispossession, hunger, and war and a call for national leadership.”

The president additionally praised the peace accord and cited constitutional provisions that supports national unity with agreement. One political party did not attend but said no snub was intended.

Switching to Irish, she 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 primary status as a language of business.”

No country can voice its aspirations if the native language spoken by ancestors was extinguished, she commented. “It has been put in second place without sufficient respect 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 meaning with each phrase.”

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