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

During her swearing-in speech, Connolly presented a leftwing alternative contrasting with the centre-right orthodoxy.

“Many assumed that it was an impossible step, that our ideas were too far out – contrary to the prevailing narrative,” she remarked, referencing her decisive election win.

“In shared conversations, however, it became clear that the mainstream message did not reflect people’s hopes and fears. Repeatedly, people spoke of how it tended to suppress, to marginalise, to label, to shut out and to stifle critical thinking.”

On a day marked by pomp at the historic venue, the 68-year-old former barrister affirmed that as Ireland’s new head of state, she would amplify diverse perspectives and would advance environmental measures, acceptance, and a resurgence of Irish culture.

“Voters have made their choice and have given their president a powerful mandate to voice shared aspirations for a new republic, a republic worthy of its name where each person matters and differences are celebrated, where sustainable solutions 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 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 platform for issues—a practice Connolly is expected to continue.

In a ballroom packed with government figures, diplomats, and other dignitaries, Connolly lamented “the acceptance of conflict and atrocities.”

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

Connolly also hailed the Good Friday agreement and cited constitutional provisions that supports national unity with agreement. One major group did not attend but clarified it was not a deliberate omission.

Speaking in Gaelic, Connolly reaffirmed a pledge to prioritise the language in the official home. “Irish will not be spoken in a low voice in the residence, it will have primary status as a language of business.”

No country can voice its aspirations if the native language used forebears was extinguished, she commented. “It has been relegated without sufficient respect or acknowledgement. The hearts of our people were quenched when they were prevented from speaking their mother tongue. It’s a language that expresses feelings and meaning with each phrase.”

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