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The newly inaugurated president has vowed 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, the president outlined a progressive vision diverging from the mainstream political consensus.

“Many assumed that it was an impossible step, that our ideas were too radical – at odds with the dominant discourse,” she stated, referencing her landslide victory.

“In shared conversations, however, it became clear that the mainstream message did not reflect people’s values and concerns. Time and time again, people spoke of how it tended to suppress, to other, to label, to shut out and to hinder independent thought.”

On a day marked by pomp at the historic venue, the 68-year-old former barrister declared that as Ireland’s 10th president, she would ensure “all voices” were heard and would promote climate action, tolerance, and a resurgence of Irish culture.

“Voters have made their choice 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 urgently implemented, and where a home is a fundamental human right.”

The presidential race outcome surprised traditional parties. The non-aligned progressive candidate brought together progressive factions, energised young voters, and defeated the ruling party’s candidate by winning 64% of the vote.

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

In a venue filled with officials, ambassadors, 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 war 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 clarified it was not a deliberate omission.

Switching to Irish, Connolly reaffirmed a pledge to prioritise the language in the presidential office and residence. “Irish will not be spoken in a low voice in the residence, it will have first place as a working language.”

No nation can express its desires if the indigenous tongue used forebears was lost, she said. “It has been put in second place without sufficient respect or acknowledgement. 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 every word.”

A artillery tribute was sounded as the new president received the seal of office.