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

In her inauguration address, the president outlined a progressive vision contrasting with the centre-right orthodoxy.

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

“In shared conversations, however, it became clear that the dominant narrative did not reflect people’s hopes and fears. 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 68-year-old former barrister declared that as Ireland’s new head of state, she would ensure “all voices” were heard and would promote environmental measures, acceptance, and a resurgence of Irish culture.

“Voters have made their choice and have given their president a strong endorsement to voice shared aspirations for a renewed nation, a republic worthy of its name where each person matters and differences are celebrated, where sustainable solutions are urgently implemented, and where a home is a fundamental human right.”

The presidential race outcome surprised traditional parties. The non-aligned progressive candidate united opposition leftwing parties, energised young voters, and trounced the ruling party’s candidate by winning 64% of the vote.

Though the presidency is a largely ceremonial post, the previous officeholder had expanded its influence, turning it into a platform for issues—a tradition the new president will likely uphold.

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

Praising Ireland’s neutrality—a possible point of disagreement with the government—she asserted: “Our experience of colonisation and resistance of a catastrophic man-made famine gives us a deep empathy of loss, hunger, and war and a call for national leadership.”

The president additionally praised the Good Friday agreement and cited constitutional provisions that espouses a united Ireland with consent. One political party declined to send a representative but said no snub was intended.

Switching to Irish, Connolly repeated a commitment to prioritise the language in the official home. “Gaelic will not be whispered in the Áras, it will have primary status as a working language.”

No nation can express its desires if the indigenous tongue spoken by ancestors was extinguished, she said. “It has been put in second place without due honour or acknowledgement. The hearts of our people were dampened when they were made to stop using their mother tongue. It’s a language that conveys emotion and sentiment with every word.”

A 21-gun salute was sounded as the head of state received the seal of office.