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The newly inaugurated president has vowed to transform Ireland into a “republic worthy of its name” by championing diversity, the Irish language, and the history of independence.

During her swearing-in speech, the president outlined a leftwing alternative diverging from the centre-right orthodoxy.

“We were led to believe that it was an impossible step, that our ideas were too far out – contrary to the dominant discourse,” she remarked, referencing her decisive election win.

“Through nationwide dialogues, however, it became evident that the mainstream message did not represent people’s values and concerns. Time and time again, people spoke of how it tended to suppress, to other, to categorise, to shut out and to hinder independent thought.”

On a day marked by pomp at Dublin Castle, the experienced legal professional declared that as Ireland’s new head of state, she would ensure “all voices” were heard and would promote climate action, acceptance, and a resurgence of Irish culture.

“Voters have made their choice and have given their president a powerful mandate to articulate their vision for a new republic, a republic true to its principles where each person matters and differences are celebrated, where sustainable solutions are swiftly enacted, and where a housing is guaranteed for all.”

Connolly’s election surprised traditional parties. The independent leftwing legislator brought together progressive factions, mobilised the youth, and trounced the ruling party’s candidate by winning 64% of the vote.

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

In a ballroom packed with government figures, diplomats, and distinguished guests, the president expressed regret over “the normalisation of war and genocide.”

Praising Ireland’s neutrality—a potential source of friction 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.”

Connolly also hailed the peace accord and cited constitutional provisions that supports national unity with consent. One major group declined to send a representative but said no snub was intended.

Speaking in Gaelic, she repeated a commitment to prioritise the language in the presidential office and residence. “Gaelic will not be whispered 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 relegated without sufficient respect or acknowledgement. The national spirit were quenched when they were prevented from speaking 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 received the seal of office.