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Catherine Connolly has vowed to reshape Ireland into a “republic worthy of its name” by advocating for diversity, the Irish language, and the legacy of decolonisation.

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

“Many assumed that it was too great a leap, that our ideas were too radical – at odds with the dominant discourse,” she remarked, referencing her landslide victory.

“Through nationwide dialogues, however, it became clear that the mainstream message did not reflect people’s values and concerns. Repeatedly, people spoke of how it served to silence, to other, to categorise, to exclude and to stifle critical thinking.”

On a ceremonial occasion at the historic venue, the experienced legal professional affirmed that as Ireland’s 10th president, she would ensure “all voices” were heard and would advance climate action, acceptance, and a Gaelic revival.

“Voters have made their choice and have given their president a strong endorsement 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 swiftly enacted, and where a home is a fundamental human right.”

Connolly’s election shocked the political establishment. The independent leftwing legislator united opposition leftwing parties, energised young voters, and trounced the mainstream opponent by winning 64% of the vote.

Though the role is primarily symbolic, the outgoing president had expanded its influence, turning it into a platform for issues—a tradition the new president will likely uphold.

In a venue filled with officials, diplomats, and other dignitaries, the president lamented “the normalisation of war and atrocities.”

Praising Ireland’s neutrality—a possible point of disagreement with the government—she said: “Our history under foreign rule and struggle against historic hardships gives us a lived understanding of loss, hunger, and conflict and a mandate for Ireland to lead.”

Connolly also hailed the Good Friday agreement and referenced constitutional provisions that espouses a united Ireland with agreement. One political party did not attend but clarified it was not a deliberate omission.

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 residence, it will have first place as a language of business.”

No nation can voice its aspirations if the native language spoken by ancestors was extinguished, she said. “It has been put in second place without sufficient respect or acknowledgement. The national spirit were dampened when they were made to stop using their own language. It’s a language that expresses feelings and meaning with every word.”

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