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Catherine Connolly has pledged to reshape Ireland into a “nation that lives up to its ideals” by championing diversity, the Gaelic tongue, and the history of independence.

During her swearing-in speech, Connolly presented a leftwing alternative contrasting with the mainstream political consensus.

“Many assumed that it was an impossible step, that our ideas were too radical – at odds with the dominant discourse,” she remarked, referencing her landslide victory.

“In shared conversations, however, it became clear that the mainstream message 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 affirmed that as Ireland’s 10th president, she would amplify diverse perspectives 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 renewed nation, a republic worthy of its name where everyone is valued and diversity is cherished, where sustainable solutions 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, energised young voters, and defeated the ruling party’s candidate by winning 64% of the vote.

Though the role is primarily symbolic, the outgoing president had stretched the constraints, turning it into a voice for causes—a practice the new president will likely uphold.

In a venue filled with government figures, diplomats, and other dignitaries, Connolly expressed regret over “the acceptance of conflict and genocide.”

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

Connolly also hailed the Good Friday agreement and cited article 3 of Ireland’s constitution that supports national unity with consent. One political party declined to send a representative but said no snub was intended.

Switching to Irish, she reaffirmed a pledge to elevate Irish in the presidential office and residence. “Gaelic will not be whispered in the Áras, it will have primary status as a language of business.”

No country can voice its aspirations if the indigenous tongue used forebears was extinguished, she commented. “It has been relegated without sufficient respect or acknowledgement. The national spirit were quenched when they were prevented from speaking their own language. It’s a language that expresses feelings and sentiment with each phrase.”

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