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

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

“We were led to believe that it was too great a leap, that our ideas were too far out – contrary to the prevailing narrative,” she remarked, pointing to her landslide victory.

“In shared conversations, 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 declared that as Ireland’s new head of state, she would amplify diverse perspectives and would advance climate action, acceptance, and a resurgence of Irish culture.

“Voters have made their choice and have given their president a strong endorsement to articulate their vision for a new republic, a republic worthy of its name where each person matters and differences are celebrated, where eco-friendly policies are urgently implemented, and where a home is a fundamental human right.”

Connolly’s election shocked the political establishment. The non-aligned progressive candidate united opposition leftwing parties, energised young voters, and trounced the mainstream opponent by securing a substantial majority.

Though the presidency is a largely ceremonial post, the previous officeholder had expanded its influence, turning it into a platform for issues—a practice Connolly is expected to continue.

In a venue filled with officials, ambassadors, and distinguished guests, the president expressed regret over “the acceptance of conflict and genocide.”

Commending Ireland’s non-alignment—a possible point of disagreement with the government—she said: “Our experience of colonisation and resistance of a catastrophic man-made famine gives us a lived understanding of loss, famine, and conflict and a mandate for Ireland to lead.”

Connolly also hailed the Good Friday agreement and cited constitutional provisions that espouses a united Ireland with consent. One major group declined to send a representative but said no snub was intended.

Switching to Irish, she repeated a commitment to prioritise the language in the official home. “Gaelic will not be whispered in the residence, it will have primary status as a language of business.”

No nation can express its desires if the indigenous tongue spoken by ancestors was lost, she commented. “It has been relegated without due honour or recognition. The national spirit were dampened when they were made to stop using their own language. It’s a language that expresses feelings and sentiment with each phrase.”

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