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

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

“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 clear that the dominant narrative did not reflect people’s hopes and fears. Time and time again, people spoke of how it served to silence, to other, to label, to exclude and to hinder independent thought.”

On a day marked by pomp at the historic venue, the experienced legal professional affirmed that as Ireland’s 10th president, she would amplify diverse perspectives and would promote 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 renewed nation, a republic true to its principles 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 surprised traditional parties. The independent leftwing legislator united opposition leftwing parties, energised young voters, and defeated the mainstream opponent by securing a substantial majority.

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 ballroom packed with officials, diplomats, and distinguished guests, the president lamented “the normalisation of war and atrocities.”

Commending Ireland’s non-alignment—a potential source of friction with the government—she asserted: “Our history under foreign rule and struggle against historic hardships gives us a lived understanding of loss, hunger, and war and a mandate for Ireland to lead.”

The president additionally praised the peace accord and cited constitutional provisions that espouses a united Ireland with agreement. One major group declined to send a representative but said no snub was intended.

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

No nation can voice its aspirations if the indigenous tongue spoken by ancestors was lost, she commented. “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 mother tongue. It’s a language that conveys emotion and sentiment with every word.”

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