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Catherine Connolly has vowed to transform Ireland into a “republic worthy of its name” by championing diversity, the Irish language, and the history of independence.

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

“We were led to believe that it was too great a leap, that our ideas were too far out – at odds with the dominant discourse,” she stated, pointing to her decisive election win.

“In shared conversations, however, it became clear that the dominant narrative did not represent people’s hopes and fears. Repeatedly, people spoke of how it tended to suppress, to other, to categorise, to shut out and to hinder independent thought.”

On a ceremonial occasion 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 climate action, acceptance, and a Gaelic revival.

“The people have spoken and have given their president a powerful mandate to voice shared aspirations for a new republic, a republic true to its principles where each person matters and diversity is cherished, where eco-friendly policies are urgently implemented, and where a housing is guaranteed for all.”

Connolly’s election surprised traditional parties. The independent leftwing legislator brought together progressive factions, mobilised the youth, and trounced the ruling party’s candidate by winning 64% of the vote.

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

In a ballroom packed with government figures, diplomats, and other dignitaries, Connolly expressed regret over “the normalisation of war and genocide.”

Commending Ireland’s neutrality—a possible point of disagreement with the government—she said: “Our history under foreign rule 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 cited article 3 of Ireland’s constitution that espouses a united Ireland with consent. One political party did not attend but clarified it was not a deliberate omission.

Speaking in Gaelic, she repeated a commitment to elevate Irish in the official home. “Gaelic will not be whispered in the residence, it will have primary status as a language of business.”

No country can voice its aspirations if the indigenous tongue used forebears was lost, she commented. “It has been relegated without sufficient respect or recognition. The national spirit 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.