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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 legacy of decolonisation.

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

“Many assumed that it was an impossible step, that our ideas were too far out – at odds with the dominant discourse,” she stated, referencing her decisive election win.

“Through nationwide dialogues, however, it became clear that the dominant narrative did not reflect people’s values and concerns. Repeatedly, people spoke of how it tended to suppress, to marginalise, to label, to shut out and to hinder independent thought.”

On a ceremonial occasion at the historic venue, the experienced legal professional declared that as Ireland’s new head of state, she would ensure “all voices” were heard and would promote environmental measures, tolerance, and a resurgence of Irish culture.

“Voters have made their choice and have given their president a powerful mandate to articulate their vision for a renewed nation, a republic worthy of its name where everyone is valued and diversity is cherished, where sustainable solutions are urgently implemented, and where a home is a fundamental human right.”

Connolly’s election shocked the political establishment. The independent leftwing legislator brought together progressive factions, energised young voters, and defeated the mainstream opponent by winning 64% of the vote.

Though the role is primarily symbolic, the previous officeholder had expanded its influence, turning it into a voice for causes—a tradition the new president will likely uphold.

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

Commending Ireland’s neutrality—a potential source of friction with the government—she asserted: “Our experience of colonisation and resistance of a catastrophic man-made famine gives us a deep empathy of dispossession, hunger, and war and a mandate for Ireland to lead.”

The president additionally praised the Good Friday agreement and cited article 3 of Ireland’s constitution that espouses a united Ireland with agreement. One major group declined to send a representative but clarified it was not a deliberate omission.

Switching to Irish, Connolly repeated a commitment to elevate Irish in the presidential office and residence. “Gaelic will not be whispered in the residence, it will have primary status as a working language.”

No nation can express its desires if the indigenous tongue used forebears was lost, she said. “It has been relegated without due honour or recognition. The hearts of our people were quenched when they were prevented from speaking their own language. It’s a language that conveys emotion and meaning with every word.”

A artillery tribute was fired as the new president was formally invested.