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

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

“We were led to believe that it was an impossible step, that our ideas were too far out – at odds with the prevailing narrative,” she remarked, referencing her landslide victory.

“Through nationwide dialogues, however, it became evident that the dominant narrative did not represent people’s hopes and fears. Repeatedly, people spoke of how it served to silence, to marginalise, to categorise, to shut out and to hinder independent thought.”

On a day marked by pomp at the historic venue, the experienced legal professional declared that as Ireland’s 10th president, she would ensure “all voices” were heard and would promote climate action, acceptance, and a resurgence of Irish culture.

“The people have spoken and have given their president a powerful mandate to articulate their vision for a renewed nation, a republic true to its principles where each person matters and differences are celebrated, where sustainable solutions are urgently implemented, and where a home is a fundamental human right.”

The presidential race outcome shocked the political establishment. The independent leftwing legislator brought together progressive factions, energised young voters, and trounced the mainstream opponent by winning 64% of the vote.

Though the role is primarily symbolic, the outgoing president had stretched the constraints, turning it into a voice for causes—a practice the new president will likely uphold.

In a ballroom packed with officials, ambassadors, and other dignitaries, the president expressed regret over “the acceptance of conflict and atrocities.”

Praising Ireland’s non-alignment—a potential source of friction with the government—she said: “Our experience of colonisation and resistance of a catastrophic man-made famine gives us a lived understanding of dispossession, famine, and war and a call for national leadership.”

Connolly also hailed the peace accord and cited article 3 of Ireland’s constitution that supports national unity with consent. One political party declined to send a representative but clarified it was not a deliberate omission.

Speaking in Gaelic, Connolly reaffirmed a pledge to elevate Irish 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 working language.”

No nation can express its desires if the native language spoken by ancestors was lost, she said. “It has been relegated without due honour or recognition. The national spirit were dampened when they were prevented from speaking their mother tongue. It’s a language that conveys emotion and meaning with each phrase.”

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