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The newly inaugurated president has vowed 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, Connolly presented a progressive vision contrasting with the mainstream political consensus.

“Many assumed that it was an impossible step, that our ideas were too radical – at odds with the prevailing narrative,” she remarked, referencing her landslide victory.

“Through nationwide dialogues, however, it became evident 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 label, to exclude and to hinder independent thought.”

On a ceremonial occasion at the historic venue, the experienced legal professional affirmed that as Ireland’s new head of state, 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 strong endorsement to voice shared aspirations for a renewed nation, a republic true to its principles where each person matters and diversity is cherished, where eco-friendly policies are urgently implemented, and where a home is a fundamental human right.”

The presidential race outcome shocked the political establishment. The independent leftwing legislator united opposition leftwing parties, mobilised the youth, and defeated the ruling party’s candidate by securing a substantial majority.

Though the role is primarily symbolic, the previous officeholder had stretched the constraints, turning it into a voice for causes—a tradition the new president will likely uphold.

In a ballroom packed with officials, ambassadors, and distinguished guests, the president lamented “the normalisation of war and atrocities.”

Commending Ireland’s neutrality—a potential source of friction with the government—she asserted: “Our history under foreign rule and resistance of a catastrophic man-made famine gives us a lived understanding of dispossession, famine, and conflict and a mandate for Ireland to lead.”

Connolly also hailed the peace accord and referenced article 3 of Ireland’s constitution that espouses a united Ireland with agreement. One political party declined to send a representative but clarified it was not a deliberate omission.

Speaking in Gaelic, Connolly repeated a commitment to elevate Irish in the official home. “Gaelic will not be whispered in the residence, it will have first place as a working language.”

No nation can express its desires if the indigenous tongue spoken by ancestors was extinguished, she commented. “It has been relegated without sufficient respect or acknowledgement. The national spirit were quenched when they were made to stop using their mother tongue. It’s a language that expresses feelings and sentiment with every word.”

A artillery tribute was sounded as the new president received the seal of office.