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Catherine Connolly has pledged to transform Ireland into a “nation that lives up to its ideals” by advocating for diversity, the Gaelic tongue, and the legacy of decolonisation.

During her swearing-in speech, the president presented 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 – at odds with the dominant discourse,” she stated, pointing to her landslide victory.

“Through nationwide dialogues, however, it became evident that the dominant narrative did not represent people’s values and concerns. Repeatedly, people spoke of how it tended to suppress, to marginalise, to label, to exclude and to stifle critical thinking.”

On a ceremonial occasion at the historic venue, the experienced legal professional declared that as Ireland’s 10th president, she would ensure “all voices” were heard and would advance climate action, acceptance, 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 worthy of its name where everyone is valued and differences are celebrated, 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 brought together progressive factions, energised young voters, and defeated the mainstream opponent by securing a substantial majority.

Though the presidency is a largely ceremonial post, the previous officeholder had stretched the constraints, turning it into a voice for causes—a practice the new president will likely uphold.

In a ballroom packed with officials, diplomats, and distinguished guests, the president expressed regret over “the acceptance of conflict 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, famine, and conflict and a mandate for Ireland to lead.”

Connolly also hailed the Good Friday agreement and cited 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.

Switching to Irish, she repeated a commitment to prioritise the language in the official home. “Gaelic will not be whispered in the Áras, it will have primary status as a working language.”

No country can voice its aspirations if the indigenous tongue spoken by ancestors was lost, she said. “It has been relegated without sufficient respect or acknowledgement. The national spirit were quenched when they were prevented from speaking their mother tongue. It’s a language that expresses feelings and meaning with each phrase.”

A artillery tribute was fired as the new president received the seal of office.