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

During her swearing-in speech, Connolly presented a progressive vision diverging from 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.

“In shared conversations, 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 marginalise, to label, to exclude 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 ensure “all voices” were heard and would promote climate action, tolerance, and a Gaelic revival.

“Voters have made their choice and have given their president a powerful mandate to articulate their vision for a renewed nation, a republic true to its principles where each person matters and differences are celebrated, where sustainable solutions are swiftly enacted, 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, energised young voters, and defeated the ruling party’s candidate by securing a substantial majority.

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

In a ballroom packed with government figures, diplomats, and other dignitaries, Connolly expressed regret over “the acceptance of conflict and atrocities.”

Praising Ireland’s non-alignment—a possible point of disagreement with the government—she said: “Our history under foreign rule and resistance of a catastrophic man-made famine gives us a lived understanding of dispossession, hunger, and war and a call for national leadership.”

Connolly also hailed the Good Friday agreement and referenced constitutional provisions that supports national unity with consent. One major group declined to send a representative but clarified it was not a deliberate omission.

Switching to Irish, Connolly reaffirmed a pledge to prioritise the language in the official home. “Irish will not be spoken in a low voice in the Áras, it will have first place as a working language.”

No nation can voice its aspirations if the indigenous tongue spoken by ancestors was lost, she commented. “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 mother tongue. It’s a language that expresses feelings and meaning with each phrase.”

A artillery tribute was sounded as the head of state received the seal of office.