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

During her swearing-in speech, 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 – at odds with the prevailing narrative,” she stated, referencing her decisive election win.

“In shared conversations, however, it became clear 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 stifle critical thinking.”

On a day marked by pomp at the historic venue, the 68-year-old former barrister affirmed that as Ireland’s 10th president, she would ensure “all voices” were heard and would advance climate action, tolerance, and a resurgence of Irish culture.

“Voters have made their choice and have given their president a strong endorsement to voice shared aspirations for a new republic, a republic true to its principles where everyone is valued and diversity is cherished, where eco-friendly policies are urgently implemented, and where a housing is guaranteed for all.”

Connolly’s election shocked the political establishment. The independent leftwing legislator united opposition leftwing parties, mobilised the youth, and trounced the ruling party’s candidate by securing a substantial majority.

Though the role is primarily symbolic, the outgoing president had expanded its influence, turning it into a voice for causes—a practice Connolly is expected to continue.

In a ballroom packed with officials, diplomats, and distinguished guests, Connolly lamented “the normalisation of war 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 deep empathy of dispossession, famine, and conflict and a mandate for Ireland to lead.”

Connolly also hailed the Good Friday agreement and referenced constitutional provisions that espouses a united Ireland with agreement. One major group did not attend but said no snub was intended.

Speaking in Gaelic, Connolly repeated a commitment to elevate Irish 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 express its desires if the indigenous tongue used forebears was extinguished, she commented. “It has been put in second place without sufficient respect or recognition. The hearts of our people were dampened when they were prevented from speaking their mother tongue. It’s a language that expresses feelings and sentiment with each phrase.”

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