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

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

“We were led to believe that it was an impossible step, that our ideas were too radical – at odds with the dominant discourse,” she stated, referencing her landslide victory.

“Through nationwide dialogues, however, it became evident that the mainstream message did not represent people’s hopes and fears. Repeatedly, people spoke of how it served to silence, to other, to label, 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 10th president, she would amplify diverse perspectives and would advance climate action, tolerance, and a resurgence of Irish culture.

“The people have spoken and have given their president a strong endorsement to voice shared aspirations for a new republic, a republic true to its principles where everyone is valued and differences are celebrated, where eco-friendly policies are urgently implemented, and where a home is a fundamental human right.”

The presidential race outcome surprised traditional parties. The non-aligned progressive candidate brought together progressive factions, mobilised the youth, and defeated 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 tradition the new president will likely uphold.

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

Commending Ireland’s non-alignment—a potential source of friction with the government—she said: “Our experience of colonisation and struggle against historic hardships gives us a lived understanding of loss, hunger, and conflict and a call for national leadership.”

Connolly also hailed the peace accord and referenced article 3 of Ireland’s constitution that espouses a united Ireland with consent. One political party did not attend but clarified it was not a deliberate omission.

Speaking in Gaelic, she repeated a commitment to elevate Irish in the presidential office and residence. “Irish will not be spoken in a low voice in the Áras, it will have primary status as a language of business.”

No nation can voice its aspirations if the indigenous tongue spoken by ancestors was extinguished, she commented. “It has been put in second place without due honour 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 every word.”

A 21-gun salute was sounded as the new president received the seal of office.