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

In her inauguration address, the president presented a progressive vision contrasting with the mainstream political consensus.

“We were led to believe that it was an impossible step, that our ideas were too radical – at odds with the dominant discourse,” she remarked, pointing to her decisive election win.

“Through nationwide dialogues, however, it became clear that the dominant narrative did not represent people’s hopes and fears. Repeatedly, people spoke of how it served to silence, to other, to label, to shut out and to stifle critical thinking.”

On a ceremonial occasion at the historic venue, the 68-year-old former barrister declared that as Ireland’s 10th president, she would amplify diverse perspectives and would advance environmental measures, tolerance, and a Gaelic revival.

“The people have spoken and have given their president a powerful mandate 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 swiftly enacted, 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 defeated the mainstream opponent by winning 64% of the vote.

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

In a venue filled with officials, diplomats, and other dignitaries, Connolly lamented “the acceptance of conflict and genocide.”

Commending Ireland’s non-alignment—a possible point of disagreement with the government—she asserted: “Our experience of colonisation and struggle against historic hardships gives us a lived understanding of loss, hunger, and conflict and a mandate for Ireland to lead.”

The president additionally praised the Good Friday agreement and referenced constitutional provisions that espouses a united Ireland with consent. One major group did not attend but said no snub was intended.

Switching to Irish, Connolly reaffirmed a pledge to elevate Irish in the presidential office and residence. “Gaelic will not be whispered in the Áras, it will have first place as a working language.”

No nation can voice its aspirations if the native language used forebears was lost, she commented. “It has been relegated without due honour or recognition. The hearts of our people were dampened when they were prevented from speaking their own language. It’s a language that conveys emotion and sentiment with each phrase.”

A artillery tribute was fired as the new president was formally invested.