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Catherine Connolly has vowed to reshape Ireland into a “republic worthy of its name” by advocating for inclusion, the Gaelic tongue, and the legacy of decolonisation.

In her inauguration address, the president outlined a progressive vision diverging from the mainstream political consensus.

“We were led to believe that it was an impossible step, that our ideas were too radical – contrary to the prevailing narrative,” she remarked, referencing her decisive election win.

“Through nationwide dialogues, however, it became evident that the mainstream message did not represent people’s values and concerns. Repeatedly, people spoke of how it tended to suppress, to other, to categorise, to exclude and to hinder independent thought.”

On a ceremonial occasion at the historic venue, the 68-year-old former barrister declared that as Ireland’s new head of state, 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 powerful mandate to articulate their vision for a new republic, a republic true to its principles where each person matters and differences are celebrated, where eco-friendly policies are urgently implemented, and where a housing is guaranteed for all.”

Connolly’s election surprised traditional parties. The non-aligned progressive candidate united opposition leftwing parties, mobilised the youth, and defeated the mainstream opponent by securing a substantial majority.

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

In a venue filled with officials, diplomats, and other dignitaries, the president expressed regret over “the normalisation of war and genocide.”

Praising Ireland’s neutrality—a potential source of friction with the government—she said: “Our history under foreign rule and struggle against historic hardships gives us a deep empathy of dispossession, famine, and war and a mandate for Ireland to lead.”

Connolly also hailed the Good Friday agreement and referenced constitutional provisions that espouses a united Ireland with consent. One political party declined to send a representative but said no snub was intended.

Switching to Irish, she 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 first place as a language of business.”

No country can express its desires if the native language used forebears was extinguished, she commented. “It has been put in second place without due honour or recognition. The national spirit were dampened when they were made to stop using their mother tongue. It’s a language that conveys emotion and sentiment with each phrase.”

A artillery tribute was sounded as the new president was formally invested.