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

In her inauguration address, the president outlined a progressive vision contrasting with the mainstream political consensus.

“Many assumed that it was an impossible step, that our ideas were too far out – contrary to the prevailing narrative,” she remarked, pointing to her landslide victory.

“Through nationwide dialogues, however, it became clear that the dominant narrative did not reflect people’s values and concerns. Time and time again, people spoke of how it tended to suppress, to other, to categorise, to exclude and to stifle critical thinking.”

On a day marked by pomp at the historic venue, the experienced legal professional affirmed that as Ireland’s 10th president, she would amplify diverse perspectives and would advance environmental measures, tolerance, and a Gaelic revival.

“Voters have made their choice and have given their president a powerful mandate to voice shared aspirations for a new republic, 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.”

Connolly’s election shocked the political establishment. The independent leftwing legislator united opposition leftwing parties, energised young voters, and defeated 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 voice for causes—a tradition Connolly is expected to continue.

In a venue filled with government figures, ambassadors, and distinguished guests, Connolly lamented “the acceptance of conflict and atrocities.”

Commending Ireland’s neutrality—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 deep empathy of loss, hunger, and war and a call for national leadership.”

Connolly also hailed the Good Friday agreement and cited constitutional provisions that supports national unity with agreement. One major group declined to send a representative but said no snub was intended.

Switching to Irish, she reaffirmed a pledge to prioritise the language in the presidential office and residence. “Irish will not be spoken in a low voice in the Áras, it will have primary status as a language of business.”

No country can express its desires if the indigenous tongue spoken by ancestors was lost, she commented. “It has been relegated without due honour or recognition. The national spirit were quenched when they were made to stop using their mother tongue. It’s a language that conveys emotion and sentiment with each phrase.”

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