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The newly inaugurated president has vowed to transform Ireland into a “republic worthy of its name” by advocating for diversity, the Gaelic tongue, and the legacy of decolonisation.

During her swearing-in speech, Connolly outlined a leftwing alternative diverging from the mainstream political consensus.

“Many assumed that it was an impossible step, that our ideas were too radical – contrary to the dominant discourse,” she remarked, referencing her landslide victory.

“Through nationwide dialogues, however, it became clear that the dominant narrative did not reflect people’s values and concerns. Repeatedly, people spoke of how it tended to suppress, to marginalise, to label, to shut out and to stifle critical thinking.”

On a ceremonial occasion at Dublin Castle, the 68-year-old former barrister affirmed that as Ireland’s new head of state, she would ensure “all voices” were heard and would promote environmental measures, tolerance, and a resurgence of Irish culture.

“The people have spoken and have given their president a strong endorsement to voice shared aspirations for a new republic, a republic worthy of its name where everyone is valued and diversity is cherished, where sustainable solutions are swiftly enacted, and where a housing is guaranteed for all.”

Connolly’s election shocked the political establishment. The non-aligned progressive candidate united opposition leftwing parties, mobilised the youth, and trounced the mainstream opponent by securing a substantial majority.

Though the role is primarily symbolic, the outgoing president had stretched the constraints, turning it into a voice for causes—a practice Connolly is expected to continue.

In a venue filled with government figures, diplomats, and other dignitaries, the president expressed regret over “the normalisation of war and genocide.”

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 deep empathy of dispossession, famine, and conflict and a call for national leadership.”

Connolly also hailed the peace accord and cited article 3 of Ireland’s constitution 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 reaffirmed a pledge to elevate Irish in the presidential office and residence. “Gaelic will not be whispered in the Áras, it will have first place as a working language.”

No country can express its desires if the native language spoken by ancestors was lost, she commented. “It has been put in second place without due honour or acknowledgement. The national spirit were quenched 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 sounded as the new president was formally invested.