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The newly inaugurated president has pledged to reshape Ireland into a “republic worthy of its name” by championing inclusion, the Gaelic tongue, and the legacy of decolonisation.

During her swearing-in speech, the president presented 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 remarked, pointing to her decisive election win.

“In shared conversations, however, it became evident that the mainstream message did not represent people’s hopes and fears. Repeatedly, people spoke of how it served to silence, to marginalise, to categorise, to exclude and to hinder independent thought.”

On a ceremonial occasion at the historic venue, the experienced legal professional declared that as Ireland’s 10th president, she would amplify diverse perspectives and would promote climate action, tolerance, and a resurgence of Irish culture.

“The people have spoken and have given their president a strong endorsement to articulate their vision for a new republic, a republic worthy of its name where everyone is valued and diversity is cherished, where eco-friendly policies are swiftly enacted, 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 trounced the mainstream opponent by securing a substantial majority.

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

In a venue filled with officials, ambassadors, and other dignitaries, the president lamented “the normalisation of war and atrocities.”

Commending Ireland’s non-alignment—a potential source of friction with the government—she said: “Our history under foreign rule 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 cited constitutional provisions that espouses a united Ireland with consent. 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 official home. “Irish will not be spoken in a low voice in the residence, it will have primary status as a working language.”

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

A 21-gun salute was fired as the new president received the seal of office.