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

During her swearing-in speech, Connolly outlined a leftwing alternative contrasting with 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 decisive election win.

“In shared conversations, however, it became clear that the dominant narrative did not represent people’s values and concerns. Repeatedly, people spoke of how it tended to suppress, to other, to categorise, to shut out and to stifle critical thinking.”

On a ceremonial occasion at Dublin Castle, the 68-year-old former barrister affirmed that as Ireland’s 10th president, she would amplify diverse perspectives 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 new republic, a republic true to its principles 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, mobilised the youth, and trounced 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 practice Connolly is expected to continue.

In a ballroom packed with government figures, diplomats, and distinguished guests, Connolly lamented “the normalisation of war and atrocities.”

Praising Ireland’s neutrality—a potential source of friction with the government—she asserted: “Our history under foreign rule and struggle against historic hardships gives us a deep empathy of loss, famine, and conflict and a mandate for Ireland to lead.”

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

Speaking in Gaelic, she repeated a commitment 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 first place as a working language.”

No country can express its desires if the native language used forebears was lost, she commented. “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 mother tongue. It’s a language that conveys emotion and meaning with every word.”

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