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

During her swearing-in speech, the president presented a progressive vision diverging from the mainstream political consensus.

“We were led to believe that it was an impossible step, that our ideas were too radical – at odds with the prevailing narrative,” she remarked, pointing to her decisive election win.

“Through nationwide dialogues, however, it became clear that the mainstream message did not represent people’s hopes and fears. Repeatedly, people spoke of how it tended to suppress, to marginalise, to categorise, to shut out and to stifle critical thinking.”

On a day marked by pomp at the historic venue, the experienced legal professional declared that as Ireland’s new head of state, she would amplify diverse perspectives and would promote climate action, tolerance, 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 worthy of its name where each person matters and differences are celebrated, where sustainable solutions are swiftly enacted, and where a housing is guaranteed for all.”

The presidential race outcome surprised traditional parties. The non-aligned progressive candidate brought together progressive factions, mobilised the youth, and defeated the ruling party’s candidate by winning 64% of the vote.

Though the role is primarily symbolic, the outgoing president had expanded its influence, turning it into a voice for causes—a tradition the new president will likely uphold.

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

Commending Ireland’s non-alignment—a possible point of disagreement with the government—she said: “Our history under foreign rule and struggle against historic hardships gives us a deep empathy of dispossession, hunger, and war and a mandate for Ireland to lead.”

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

Speaking in Gaelic, Connolly reaffirmed a pledge to prioritise the language in the official home. “Irish will not be spoken in a low voice in the Áras, it will have first place as a language of business.”

No country can express its desires if the indigenous tongue used forebears was extinguished, she commented. “It has been relegated without sufficient respect or recognition. The hearts of our people were quenched when they were made to stop using their own language. It’s a language that expresses feelings and sentiment with each phrase.”

A 21-gun salute was sounded as the new president received the seal of office.