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Catherine Connolly has vowed to transform Ireland into a “republic worthy of its name” by championing diversity, the Gaelic tongue, and the legacy of decolonisation.

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

“Many assumed that it was too great a leap, that our ideas were too far out – contrary to the dominant discourse,” she remarked, referencing her landslide victory.

“In shared conversations, however, it became clear that the dominant narrative did not represent people’s hopes and fears. Repeatedly, people spoke of how it served to silence, to other, to label, to shut out and to stifle critical thinking.”

On a ceremonial occasion at Dublin Castle, the experienced legal professional declared that as Ireland’s new head of state, she would ensure “all voices” were heard and would advance climate action, tolerance, and a Gaelic revival.

“The people have spoken and have given their president a powerful mandate to voice shared aspirations for a renewed nation, a republic true to its principles where each person matters and diversity is cherished, where eco-friendly policies are swiftly enacted, and where a housing is guaranteed for all.”

The presidential race outcome surprised traditional parties. 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 role is primarily symbolic, the previous officeholder had stretched the constraints, 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, the president lamented “the normalisation of war and genocide.”

Praising Ireland’s neutrality—a possible point of disagreement with the government—she said: “Our experience of colonisation and struggle against historic hardships gives us a deep empathy of dispossession, hunger, and conflict and a mandate for Ireland to lead.”

The president additionally praised the Good Friday agreement and referenced constitutional provisions 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. “Irish will not be spoken in a low voice in the residence, it will have primary status as a language of business.”

No country can voice its aspirations if the native language used forebears was extinguished, she said. “It has been relegated without due honour or acknowledgement. The national spirit 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 was formally invested.