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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 history of independence.

During her swearing-in speech, the president presented a leftwing alternative contrasting with the mainstream political consensus.

“Many assumed that it was too great a leap, that our ideas were too far out – contrary to the prevailing narrative,” she remarked, referencing her decisive election win.

“Through nationwide dialogues, however, it became evident that the mainstream message did not reflect people’s values and concerns. Repeatedly, people spoke of how it tended to suppress, to other, to categorise, to exclude and to hinder independent thought.”

On a ceremonial occasion at the historic venue, the 68-year-old former barrister declared that as Ireland’s 10th president, she would amplify diverse perspectives and would promote environmental measures, tolerance, and a Gaelic revival.

“The people have spoken and have given their president a powerful mandate to articulate their vision for a renewed nation, a republic worthy of its name where each person matters and differences are celebrated, where eco-friendly policies are swiftly enacted, and where a home is a fundamental human right.”

Connolly’s election surprised traditional parties. The non-aligned progressive candidate united opposition leftwing parties, energised young voters, and defeated the mainstream opponent by securing a substantial majority.

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, ambassadors, and distinguished guests, Connolly lamented “the normalisation of war and genocide.”

Commending Ireland’s neutrality—a possible point of disagreement with the government—she said: “Our history under foreign rule and resistance of a catastrophic man-made famine gives us a lived understanding of dispossession, hunger, and war and a call for national leadership.”

The president additionally praised the peace accord and referenced constitutional provisions that supports national unity with consent. One political party did not attend but clarified it was not a deliberate omission.

Speaking in Gaelic, Connolly reaffirmed a pledge to elevate Irish in the official home. “Gaelic will not be whispered in the residence, it will have primary status as a language of business.”

No country can express its desires if the indigenous tongue used forebears was lost, she said. “It has been put in second place without sufficient respect or acknowledgement. The hearts of our people were quenched when they were prevented from speaking their mother tongue. It’s a language that conveys emotion and sentiment with each phrase.”

A 21-gun salute was sounded as the new president was formally invested.