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

During her swearing-in speech, Connolly outlined a leftwing alternative diverging from the centre-right orthodoxy.

“Many assumed that it was an impossible step, that our ideas were too radical – contrary to the dominant discourse,” she stated, referencing her decisive election win.

“Through nationwide dialogues, however, it became evident that the mainstream message did not represent people’s hopes and fears. Time and time again, people spoke of how it tended to suppress, to other, to label, to exclude and to hinder independent thought.”

On a day marked by pomp at Dublin Castle, the 68-year-old former barrister affirmed that as Ireland’s new head of state, she would ensure “all voices” were heard and would advance environmental measures, acceptance, and a Gaelic revival.

“The people have spoken and have given their president a strong endorsement to articulate their vision for a new republic, a republic true to its principles where each person matters and diversity is cherished, where eco-friendly policies are swiftly enacted, and where a housing is guaranteed for all.”

Connolly’s election shocked the political establishment. The independent leftwing legislator united opposition leftwing parties, energised young voters, and defeated the mainstream opponent by winning 64% of the vote.

Though the presidency is a largely ceremonial post, the previous officeholder had stretched the constraints, turning it into a voice for causes—a practice the new president will likely uphold.

In a ballroom packed with officials, diplomats, and other dignitaries, the president lamented “the acceptance of conflict and atrocities.”

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

Connolly also hailed the peace accord and cited article 3 of Ireland’s constitution 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 elevate Irish in the official home. “Irish will not be spoken in a low voice in the residence, it will have primary status as a language of business.”

No country can express its desires if the indigenous tongue spoken by ancestors was extinguished, she said. “It has been relegated without due honour or acknowledgement. The hearts of our people were quenched when they were prevented from speaking their own language. It’s a language that conveys emotion and sentiment with every word.”

A artillery tribute was sounded as the new president received the seal of office.