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The newly inaugurated president has vowed to transform Ireland into a “nation that lives up to its ideals” by advocating for diversity, the Irish language, 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 too great a leap, that our ideas were too far out – contrary to the prevailing narrative,” she stated, referencing her decisive election win.

“In shared conversations, however, it became clear that the dominant narrative did not represent people’s values and concerns. Time and time again, people spoke of how it served to silence, to marginalise, to categorise, to exclude and to stifle critical thinking.”

On a day marked by pomp at Dublin Castle, the experienced legal professional declared that as Ireland’s new head of state, she would amplify diverse perspectives and would promote climate action, 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 true to its principles 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 surprised traditional parties. The independent leftwing legislator brought together progressive factions, 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 outgoing president had stretched the constraints, turning it into a platform for issues—a tradition the new president will likely uphold.

In a venue filled with officials, ambassadors, and other dignitaries, the president expressed regret over “the normalisation of war and atrocities.”

Praising Ireland’s neutrality—a potential source of friction with the government—she asserted: “Our experience of colonisation and struggle against historic hardships gives us a deep empathy of loss, famine, and war and a mandate for Ireland to lead.”

The president additionally praised the Good Friday agreement and referenced article 3 of Ireland’s constitution that espouses a united Ireland with agreement. One major group declined to send a representative but said no snub was intended.

Speaking in Gaelic, 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 first place as a language of business.”

No country can voice its aspirations if the native language used forebears was lost, she said. “It has been put in second place without due honour or acknowledgement. The national spirit were dampened when they were prevented from speaking their own language. It’s a language that expresses feelings and meaning with every word.”

A 21-gun salute was sounded as the head of state was formally invested.