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

In her inauguration address, the president outlined a leftwing alternative diverging from the mainstream political consensus.

“We were led to believe that it was an impossible step, that our ideas were too far out – contrary to the dominant discourse,” she remarked, pointing to her decisive election win.

“Through nationwide dialogues, however, it became evident that the dominant narrative did not reflect people’s hopes and fears. Repeatedly, people spoke of how it tended to suppress, to marginalise, to label, to shut out 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 resurgence of Irish culture.

“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 each person matters and diversity is cherished, where sustainable solutions are urgently implemented, and where a housing is guaranteed for all.”

The presidential race outcome shocked the political establishment. The non-aligned progressive candidate united opposition leftwing parties, mobilised the youth, and trounced the ruling party’s candidate by securing a substantial majority.

Though the presidency is a largely ceremonial post, the previous officeholder had expanded its influence, turning it into a voice for causes—a tradition the new president will likely uphold.

In a ballroom packed with officials, ambassadors, and other dignitaries, the president lamented “the normalisation of war and atrocities.”

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 loss, famine, and conflict and a call for national leadership.”

The president additionally praised the peace accord and referenced constitutional provisions that supports national unity 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. “Irish will not be spoken in a low voice in the Áras, it will have primary status as a working language.”

No nation can voice its aspirations if the native language spoken by ancestors was lost, she said. “It has been put in second place without due honour or acknowledgement. The hearts of our people were dampened when they were made to stop using their own language. It’s a language that expresses feelings and sentiment with each phrase.”

A artillery tribute was fired as the head of state received the seal of office.