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The newly inaugurated president has pledged to reshape Ireland into a “republic worthy of its name” by advocating for diversity, the Gaelic tongue, and the history of independence.

In her inauguration address, the president outlined a leftwing alternative diverging from the centre-right orthodoxy.

“Many assumed that it was an impossible step, that our ideas were too far out – contrary to the prevailing narrative,” she remarked, referencing 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 tended to suppress, to other, to label, to shut out and to hinder independent thought.”

On a day marked by pomp at the historic venue, the experienced legal professional affirmed that as Ireland’s new head of state, she would ensure “all voices” were heard and would advance climate action, acceptance, and a resurgence of Irish culture.

“Voters have made their choice and have given their president a powerful mandate to articulate their vision for a new republic, a republic worthy of its name where each person matters and differences are celebrated, where eco-friendly policies are swiftly enacted, 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 trounced the mainstream opponent by winning 64% of the vote.

Though the role is primarily symbolic, the outgoing president had expanded its influence, turning it into a platform for issues—a practice the new president will likely uphold.

In a ballroom packed with officials, ambassadors, and distinguished guests, the president lamented “the acceptance of conflict and genocide.”

Commending Ireland’s non-alignment—a potential source of friction with the government—she asserted: “Our experience of colonisation and resistance of a catastrophic man-made famine gives us a lived understanding of dispossession, hunger, and conflict and a call for national leadership.”

The president additionally praised the peace accord and cited constitutional provisions that supports national unity with agreement. One political party declined to send a representative but said no snub was intended.

Switching to Irish, Connolly reaffirmed a pledge to prioritise the language in the presidential office and residence. “Irish will not be spoken in a low voice in the residence, it will have primary status as a language of business.”

No nation can express its desires if the indigenous tongue used forebears was extinguished, she said. “It has been relegated without sufficient respect or recognition. The national spirit were dampened when they were prevented from speaking their own language. It’s a language that conveys emotion and meaning with each phrase.”

A artillery tribute was sounded as the head of state was formally invested.