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

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

“We were led to believe that it was too great a leap, that our ideas were too radical – contrary to the dominant discourse,” she stated, referencing her landslide victory.

“In shared conversations, however, it became clear that the dominant narrative did not reflect people’s values and concerns. Repeatedly, people spoke of how it served to silence, to marginalise, to categorise, to shut out and to hinder independent thought.”

On a day marked by pomp at the historic venue, the experienced legal professional declared that as Ireland’s 10th president, she would ensure “all voices” were heard and would advance environmental measures, acceptance, and a Gaelic revival.

“The people have spoken and have given their president a strong endorsement to voice shared aspirations for a new republic, a republic true to its principles where everyone is valued and differences are celebrated, where eco-friendly policies are urgently implemented, and where a housing is guaranteed for all.”

Connolly’s election surprised traditional parties. The independent leftwing legislator brought together progressive factions, mobilised the youth, and defeated the ruling party’s candidate by securing a substantial majority.

Though the presidency is a largely ceremonial post, the previous officeholder had stretched the constraints, turning it into a platform for issues—a tradition Connolly is expected to continue.

In a venue filled with officials, diplomats, 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 said: “Our experience of colonisation and struggle against historic hardships gives us a deep empathy of dispossession, hunger, and conflict and a call for national leadership.”

Connolly also hailed the Good Friday agreement and cited article 3 of Ireland’s constitution that supports national unity with consent. One major group did not attend but said no snub was intended.

Switching to Irish, Connolly repeated a commitment to elevate Irish in the official home. “Gaelic will not be whispered in the residence, it will have first place as a working language.”

No country can express its desires if the indigenous tongue used forebears was extinguished, she commented. “It has been relegated without sufficient respect 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 artillery tribute was fired as the head of state received the seal of office.