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

During her swearing-in speech, Connolly presented a progressive vision diverging from the centre-right orthodoxy.

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

“Through nationwide dialogues, however, it became evident that the mainstream message did not reflect people’s hopes and fears. Time and time again, people spoke of how it served to silence, to marginalise, to categorise, to shut out and to stifle critical thinking.”

On a day marked by pomp at the historic venue, the experienced legal professional affirmed that as Ireland’s new head of state, she would ensure “all voices” were heard and would promote environmental measures, tolerance, and a Gaelic revival.

“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 everyone is valued and differences are celebrated, where sustainable solutions 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, energised young voters, 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 Connolly is expected to continue.

In a ballroom packed with officials, diplomats, and other dignitaries, Connolly expressed regret over “the normalisation of war and atrocities.”

Commending Ireland’s neutrality—a potential source of friction with the government—she said: “Our experience of colonisation and resistance of a catastrophic man-made famine gives us a lived understanding of loss, hunger, and conflict and a call for national leadership.”

Connolly also hailed the Good Friday agreement and cited article 3 of Ireland’s constitution that supports national unity with consent. One political party declined to send a representative but said no snub was intended.

Speaking in Gaelic, she reaffirmed a pledge to prioritise the language in the official home. “Gaelic will not be whispered in the residence, it will have first place as a working language.”

No nation can voice its aspirations if the indigenous tongue spoken by ancestors was extinguished, she commented. “It has been put in second place without sufficient respect or acknowledgement. The national spirit were quenched when they were prevented from speaking their own language. It’s a language that expresses feelings and sentiment with each phrase.”

A 21-gun salute was sounded as the head of state received the seal of office.