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Catherine Connolly has pledged to transform Ireland into a “nation that lives up to its ideals” by championing inclusion, the Irish language, and the legacy of decolonisation.

During her swearing-in speech, the president outlined a progressive vision diverging from the centre-right orthodoxy.

“We were led to believe that it was too great a leap, that our ideas were too radical – contrary to 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. Time and time again, 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 Dublin Castle, the experienced legal professional declared that as Ireland’s 10th president, she would amplify diverse perspectives and would advance climate action, tolerance, and a Gaelic revival.

“Voters have made their choice and have given their president a strong endorsement to voice shared aspirations for a new republic, a republic true to its principles where each person matters and diversity is cherished, where eco-friendly policies are urgently implemented, and where a home is a fundamental human right.”

Connolly’s election shocked the political establishment. The independent leftwing legislator brought together progressive factions, mobilised the youth, and trounced the ruling party’s candidate 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 ballroom packed with officials, ambassadors, and other dignitaries, Connolly expressed regret over “the normalisation of war and genocide.”

Commending Ireland’s neutrality—a possible point of disagreement with the government—she said: “Our history under foreign rule and resistance of a catastrophic man-made famine gives us a lived understanding of dispossession, hunger, and war and a call for national leadership.”

Connolly also hailed the peace accord and referenced constitutional provisions that espouses a united Ireland with consent. One political party did not attend but said no snub was intended.

Switching to Irish, Connolly repeated a commitment to prioritise the language in the presidential office and residence. “Gaelic will not be whispered in the residence, it will have first place as a language of business.”

No nation can voice its aspirations if the indigenous tongue used forebears was extinguished, she commented. “It has been put in second place without due honour 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 meaning with every word.”

A 21-gun salute was sounded as the head of state received the seal of office.