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The newly inaugurated president has pledged to transform Ireland into a “nation that lives up to its ideals” by advocating for diversity, the Gaelic tongue, and the history of independence.

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

“Many assumed that it was too great a leap, that our ideas were too far out – contrary to the prevailing narrative,” she remarked, pointing to her landslide victory.

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

On a day marked by pomp 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 Gaelic revival.

“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 diversity is cherished, where eco-friendly policies are urgently implemented, and where a housing is guaranteed for all.”

The presidential race outcome surprised traditional parties. The independent leftwing legislator united opposition leftwing parties, mobilised the youth, 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 platform for issues—a practice Connolly is expected to continue.

In a ballroom packed with government figures, ambassadors, and distinguished guests, the president expressed regret over “the normalisation of war and genocide.”

Praising Ireland’s neutrality—a possible point of disagreement with the government—she asserted: “Our experience of colonisation and struggle against historic hardships gives us a lived understanding of dispossession, famine, and conflict and a mandate for Ireland to lead.”

The president additionally praised the peace accord and cited constitutional provisions that espouses a united Ireland with consent. One major group did not attend but said no snub was intended.

Switching to Irish, she reaffirmed a pledge to prioritise the language in the presidential office and residence. “Gaelic will not be whispered in the residence, it will have primary status as a working language.”

No country can voice its aspirations if the indigenous tongue spoken by ancestors was extinguished, she said. “It has been put in second place without due honour or recognition. The national spirit were dampened when they were made to stop using their own language. It’s a language that expresses feelings and sentiment with each phrase.”

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