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

In her inauguration address, the president presented a leftwing alternative 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 prevailing narrative,” she stated, referencing her landslide victory.

“In shared conversations, however, it became clear that the dominant narrative did not represent people’s values and concerns. Repeatedly, people spoke of how it served to silence, to marginalise, to label, to exclude and to stifle critical thinking.”

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.

“The people have spoken and have given their president a strong endorsement to voice shared aspirations for a renewed nation, a republic worthy of its name where each person matters and differences are celebrated, where sustainable solutions are swiftly enacted, and where a housing is guaranteed for all.”

The presidential race outcome surprised traditional parties. The non-aligned progressive candidate united opposition leftwing parties, mobilised the youth, and trounced the mainstream opponent by winning 64% of the vote.

Though the presidency is a largely ceremonial post, the outgoing president had stretched the constraints, turning it into a platform for issues—a tradition the new president will likely uphold.

In a venue filled with officials, diplomats, and other dignitaries, the president 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 struggle against historic hardships gives us a lived understanding of loss, hunger, and conflict and a call for national leadership.”

The president additionally praised the Good Friday agreement and referenced 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.

Speaking in Gaelic, she reaffirmed a pledge to prioritise the language in the presidential office and residence. “Gaelic will not be whispered in the Áras, it will have first place as a working language.”

No nation can voice its aspirations if the native language spoken by ancestors was lost, she commented. “It has been put in second place without sufficient respect or recognition. The hearts of our people were quenched when they were made to stop using their mother tongue. It’s a language that conveys emotion and meaning with each phrase.”

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