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The newly inaugurated president has pledged to transform Ireland into a “nation that lives up to its ideals” by advocating for diversity, the Gaelic tongue, and the history of independence.

During her swearing-in speech, Connolly presented 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 far out – contrary to the dominant discourse,” she stated, referencing her landslide victory.

“In shared conversations, however, it became evident that the mainstream message did not reflect people’s hopes and fears. Repeatedly, people spoke of how it served to silence, to marginalise, to categorise, to exclude and to hinder independent thought.”

On a day marked by pomp at Dublin Castle, the experienced legal professional affirmed that as Ireland’s new head of state, she would amplify diverse perspectives and would advance 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 worthy of its name where everyone is valued and diversity is cherished, where sustainable solutions are urgently implemented, and where a housing is guaranteed for all.”

Connolly’s election shocked the political establishment. The non-aligned progressive candidate brought together progressive factions, mobilised the youth, and trounced the ruling party’s candidate by securing a substantial majority.

Though the role is primarily symbolic, the outgoing president had stretched the constraints, turning it into a voice for causes—a practice Connolly is expected to continue.

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

Praising Ireland’s non-alignment—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 deep empathy of dispossession, famine, and conflict and a call for national leadership.”

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 said no snub was intended.

Speaking in Gaelic, Connolly repeated a commitment to prioritise the language in the official home. “Irish will not be spoken in a low voice in the Áras, it will have primary status as a working language.”

No nation can voice its aspirations if the indigenous tongue spoken by ancestors was extinguished, she said. “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 conveys emotion and meaning with every word.”

A 21-gun salute was sounded as the head of state was formally invested.