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Catherine Connolly has vowed to reshape Ireland into a “nation that lives up to its ideals” by advocating for inclusion, the Gaelic tongue, and the history of independence.

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

“Many assumed that it was too great a leap, that our ideas were too far out – at odds with the prevailing narrative,” she remarked, pointing to her decisive election win.

“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 day marked by pomp at the historic venue, the 68-year-old former barrister declared that as Ireland’s new head of state, she would ensure “all voices” were heard and would advance climate action, tolerance, and a resurgence of Irish culture.

“Voters have made their choice and have given their president a powerful mandate to voice shared aspirations for a new republic, a republic true to its principles where everyone is valued and differences are celebrated, where eco-friendly policies are swiftly enacted, and where a housing is guaranteed for all.”

Connolly’s election surprised traditional parties. The independent leftwing legislator brought together progressive factions, energised young voters, and trounced the mainstream opponent by securing a substantial majority.

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 venue filled with government figures, 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 asserted: “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 cited constitutional provisions that supports national unity with consent. One political party 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 residence, it will have first place as a language of business.”

No country can voice its aspirations if the native language spoken by ancestors was lost, she commented. “It has been put in second place without sufficient respect or acknowledgement. The national spirit were dampened when they were prevented from speaking their own language. It’s a language that expresses feelings and sentiment with every word.”

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