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Catherine Connolly has pledged to reshape Ireland into a “republic worthy of its name” by advocating for diversity, the Gaelic tongue, and the history of independence.

In her inauguration address, Connolly outlined a leftwing alternative diverging from the centre-right orthodoxy.

“Many assumed that it was an impossible step, that our ideas were too radical – contrary to the prevailing narrative,” she stated, referencing her decisive election win.

“In shared conversations, however, it became evident that the dominant narrative did not reflect people’s hopes and fears. Time and time again, people spoke of how it tended to suppress, to marginalise, to categorise, to shut out and to hinder independent thought.”

On a day marked by pomp at the historic venue, 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 Gaelic revival.

“The people have spoken and have given their president a powerful mandate to voice shared aspirations for a renewed nation, 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 brought together progressive factions, mobilised the youth, and defeated the mainstream opponent by securing a substantial majority.

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

In a ballroom packed with officials, diplomats, and distinguished guests, the president lamented “the acceptance of conflict and atrocities.”

Commending Ireland’s neutrality—a possible point of disagreement with the government—she said: “Our experience of colonisation and resistance of a catastrophic man-made famine gives us a deep empathy of loss, hunger, and war and a mandate for Ireland to lead.”

Connolly also hailed the peace accord and referenced constitutional provisions that espouses a united Ireland with agreement. One major group did not attend but clarified it was not a deliberate omission.

Switching to Irish, she repeated a commitment to prioritise the language in the official home. “Irish will not be spoken in a low voice in the residence, it will have first place as a working language.”

No nation can voice its aspirations if the indigenous tongue used forebears was lost, she commented. “It has been put in second place without due honour or recognition. The hearts of our people were dampened when they were prevented from speaking their mother tongue. It’s a language that conveys emotion and meaning with every word.”

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