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Catherine Connolly has pledged to reshape Ireland into a “nation that lives up to its ideals” by advocating for inclusion, the Gaelic tongue, and the history of independence.

During her swearing-in speech, Connolly presented a leftwing alternative contrasting with the centre-right orthodoxy.

“Many assumed that it was too great a leap, that our ideas were too radical – contrary to 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. Time and time again, people spoke of how it served to silence, to marginalise, to label, to exclude and to hinder independent thought.”

On a ceremonial occasion at Dublin Castle, the 68-year-old former barrister declared that as Ireland’s 10th president, she would ensure “all voices” were heard and would promote climate action, tolerance, and a resurgence of Irish culture.

“Voters have made their choice and have given their president a strong endorsement to voice shared aspirations for a new republic, a republic true to its principles where each person matters and differences are celebrated, where eco-friendly policies are swiftly enacted, and where a housing is guaranteed for all.”

The presidential race outcome surprised traditional parties. The non-aligned progressive candidate brought together progressive factions, energised young voters, and trounced the mainstream opponent by securing a substantial majority.

Though the presidency is a largely ceremonial post, the outgoing president had expanded its influence, turning it into a platform for issues—a practice the new president will likely uphold.

In a venue filled with officials, diplomats, and other dignitaries, Connolly 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 deep empathy of loss, famine, and conflict and a mandate for Ireland to lead.”

Connolly also hailed the Good Friday agreement and referenced constitutional provisions that supports national unity with consent. One major group did not attend but said no snub was intended.

Switching to Irish, Connolly 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 first place as a language of business.”

No nation can voice its aspirations if the indigenous tongue spoken by ancestors was extinguished, she said. “It has been relegated without sufficient respect or acknowledgement. The national spirit were quenched when they were made to stop using their own language. It’s a language that conveys emotion and sentiment with every word.”

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