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The newly inaugurated president has pledged to transform Ireland into a “republic worthy of its name” by championing diversity, the Gaelic tongue, and the history of independence.

In her inauguration address, the president presented a leftwing alternative contrasting with the mainstream political consensus.

“We were led to believe that it was an impossible step, that our ideas were too far out – at odds with the prevailing narrative,” she remarked, pointing to her landslide victory.

“Through nationwide dialogues, however, it became clear that the mainstream message did not represent people’s values and concerns. Time and time again, people spoke of how it tended to suppress, to marginalise, to categorise, to exclude and to hinder independent thought.”

On a ceremonial occasion at the historic venue, the experienced legal professional declared that as Ireland’s new head of state, she would amplify diverse perspectives and would advance environmental measures, tolerance, and a Gaelic revival.

“The people have spoken and have given their president a strong endorsement to voice shared aspirations for a renewed nation, a republic worthy of its name where everyone is valued and diversity is cherished, where eco-friendly policies are urgently implemented, and where a housing is guaranteed for all.”

The presidential race outcome shocked the political establishment. The non-aligned progressive candidate united opposition leftwing parties, mobilised the youth, and defeated 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 voice for causes—a tradition Connolly is expected to continue.

In a ballroom packed with government figures, ambassadors, and other dignitaries, Connolly lamented “the acceptance of conflict and genocide.”

Praising Ireland’s neutrality—a potential source of friction with the government—she said: “Our history under foreign rule and struggle against historic hardships gives us a deep empathy of dispossession, famine, and conflict 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 political party declined to send a representative but said no snub was intended.

Speaking in Gaelic, Connolly reaffirmed a pledge to elevate Irish in the official home. “Gaelic will not be whispered 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 lost, she said. “It has been put in second place without sufficient respect or acknowledgement. The national spirit were quenched when they were made to stop using their mother tongue. It’s a language that conveys emotion and meaning with each phrase.”

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