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

In her inauguration address, the president outlined a leftwing alternative contrasting with the mainstream political consensus.

“Many assumed that it was an impossible step, that our ideas were too radical – contrary to the prevailing narrative,” she stated, referencing her landslide victory.

“In shared conversations, however, it became evident that the dominant narrative did not reflect people’s values and concerns. Repeatedly, people spoke of how it served to silence, to marginalise, to label, to shut out 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 ensure “all voices” were heard and would promote climate action, acceptance, and a Gaelic revival.

“The people have spoken and have given their president a strong endorsement to articulate their vision for a renewed nation, a republic true to its principles where everyone is valued and diversity is cherished, where sustainable solutions are urgently implemented, and where a housing is guaranteed for all.”

The presidential race outcome shocked the political establishment. The independent leftwing legislator united opposition leftwing parties, mobilised the youth, and defeated the mainstream opponent by winning 64% of the vote.

Though the role is primarily symbolic, the previous officeholder had stretched the constraints, turning it into a platform for issues—a practice the new president will likely uphold.

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

Praising Ireland’s non-alignment—a possible point of disagreement with the government—she asserted: “Our history under foreign rule and resistance of a catastrophic man-made famine gives us a lived understanding of dispossession, famine, and conflict and a mandate for Ireland to lead.”

The president additionally praised the Good Friday agreement and cited constitutional provisions that supports national unity with agreement. One major group declined to send a representative but said no snub was intended.

Switching to Irish, Connolly repeated a commitment to elevate Irish in the presidential office and residence. “Gaelic will not be whispered in the Áras, it will have primary status as a language of business.”

No nation can voice its aspirations if the indigenous tongue spoken by ancestors was lost, she said. “It has been put in second place without due honour or acknowledgement. The national spirit were dampened when they were made to stop using their mother tongue. It’s a language that conveys emotion and sentiment with each phrase.”

A 21-gun salute was fired as the new president was formally invested.