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The newly inaugurated president has pledged to reshape Ireland into a “republic worthy of its name” by championing inclusion, the Gaelic tongue, and the legacy of decolonisation.

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 far out – at odds with the dominant discourse,” she stated, pointing to her decisive election win.

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

On a ceremonial occasion at Dublin Castle, the experienced legal professional affirmed that as Ireland’s 10th president, she would amplify diverse perspectives and would promote climate action, tolerance, and a resurgence of Irish culture.

“The people have spoken and have given their president a strong endorsement to articulate their vision for a new republic, a republic true to its principles where everyone is valued and differences are celebrated, where sustainable solutions are swiftly enacted, and where a home is a fundamental human right.”

The presidential race outcome surprised traditional parties. The independent leftwing legislator united opposition leftwing parties, mobilised the youth, and trounced the ruling party’s candidate by securing a substantial majority.

Though the role is primarily symbolic, the outgoing president had stretched the constraints, turning it into a voice for causes—a practice Connolly is expected to continue.

In a venue filled with government figures, ambassadors, and other dignitaries, the president lamented “the acceptance of conflict and atrocities.”

Praising Ireland’s non-alignment—a potential source of friction with the government—she asserted: “Our history under foreign rule and struggle against historic hardships gives us a deep empathy of dispossession, hunger, and conflict and a mandate for Ireland to lead.”

The president additionally praised the peace accord and cited constitutional provisions that supports national unity with agreement. 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 Áras, it will have first place as a language of business.”

No country can voice its aspirations if the native language used forebears was extinguished, she said. “It has been put in second place without sufficient respect or recognition. The hearts of our people were quenched when they were prevented from speaking their own language. It’s a language that conveys emotion and meaning with every word.”

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