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Catherine Connolly has vowed to transform Ireland into a “nation that lives up to its ideals” by advocating for diversity, the Irish language, and the legacy of decolonisation.

In her inauguration address, the president outlined a leftwing alternative diverging from the mainstream political consensus.

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

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

On a ceremonial occasion 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 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 differences are celebrated, where sustainable solutions are urgently implemented, and where a home is a fundamental human right.”

Connolly’s election shocked the political establishment. The non-aligned progressive candidate 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 platform for issues—a practice the new president will likely uphold.

In a venue filled with officials, ambassadors, and distinguished guests, the president lamented “the acceptance of conflict and genocide.”

Commending Ireland’s neutrality—a potential source of friction with the government—she said: “Our history under foreign rule and resistance of a catastrophic man-made famine gives us a lived understanding of loss, hunger, and conflict and a mandate for Ireland to lead.”

The president additionally praised the peace accord and cited constitutional provisions that espouses a united Ireland with consent. One political party did not attend but clarified it was not a deliberate omission.

Speaking in Gaelic, 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 residence, it will have primary status as a working language.”

No nation can voice its aspirations if the indigenous tongue spoken by ancestors was extinguished, she commented. “It has been put in second place 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 received the seal of office.