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The newly inaugurated president has vowed to reshape Ireland into a “nation that lives up to its ideals” by championing inclusion, the Gaelic tongue, and the legacy of decolonisation.

During her swearing-in speech, Connolly outlined a progressive vision diverging from the centre-right orthodoxy.

“We were led to believe that it was an impossible step, that our ideas were too far out – contrary to the dominant discourse,” she stated, pointing to her decisive election win.

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

On a ceremonial occasion at Dublin Castle, the experienced legal professional affirmed that as Ireland’s 10th president, she would ensure “all voices” were heard and would advance climate action, 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 each person matters and differences are celebrated, where eco-friendly policies are urgently implemented, and where a housing is guaranteed for all.”

The presidential race outcome shocked the political establishment. The non-aligned progressive candidate brought together progressive factions, mobilised the youth, and defeated the ruling party’s candidate by winning 64% of the vote.

Though the role is primarily symbolic, the outgoing president had expanded its influence, turning it into a voice for causes—a tradition Connolly is expected to continue.

In a venue filled with officials, diplomats, and other dignitaries, Connolly expressed regret over “the acceptance of conflict and atrocities.”

Praising Ireland’s neutrality—a potential source of friction with the government—she said: “Our experience of colonisation and resistance of a catastrophic man-made famine gives us a lived understanding of loss, famine, and war and a call for national leadership.”

Connolly also hailed the peace accord and referenced constitutional provisions that espouses a united Ireland with consent. One major group declined to send a representative but clarified it was not a deliberate omission.

Speaking in Gaelic, she 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 first place as a working language.”

No nation can voice its aspirations if the native language spoken by ancestors was lost, she commented. “It has been put in second place without sufficient respect or recognition. The national spirit were quenched when they were made to stop using their own language. It’s a language that expresses feelings and meaning with every word.”

A artillery tribute was sounded as the head of state received the seal of office.