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

During her swearing-in speech, the president outlined a leftwing alternative contrasting with the mainstream political consensus.

“We were led to believe that it was too great a leap, that our ideas were too radical – at odds with the prevailing narrative,” she stated, pointing to her decisive election win.

“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 served to silence, 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 new head of state, she would ensure “all voices” were heard and would promote environmental measures, tolerance, and a Gaelic revival.

“The people have spoken and have given their president a powerful mandate to articulate their vision 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.”

Connolly’s election surprised traditional parties. The independent leftwing legislator united opposition leftwing parties, energised young voters, and trounced the ruling party’s candidate by winning 64% of the vote.

Though the presidency is a largely ceremonial post, the outgoing president had expanded its influence, turning it into a voice for causes—a practice Connolly is expected to continue.

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

Praising Ireland’s non-alignment—a potential source of friction with the government—she said: “Our history under foreign rule and struggle against historic hardships gives us a lived understanding of dispossession, hunger, and conflict and a mandate for Ireland to lead.”

Connolly also hailed the peace accord and referenced article 3 of Ireland’s constitution that supports national unity with agreement. One political party did not attend but said no snub was intended.

Speaking in Gaelic, she reaffirmed a pledge to prioritise the language in the official home. “Irish will not be spoken in a low voice in the residence, it will have primary status as a working language.”

No country can express its desires if the native language spoken by ancestors was extinguished, she commented. “It has been put in second place without due honour or acknowledgement. The national spirit were quenched when they were made to stop using their mother tongue. It’s a language that expresses feelings and sentiment with each phrase.”

A 21-gun salute was fired as the new president was formally invested.