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

In her inauguration address, the president outlined a leftwing alternative contrasting with the mainstream political consensus.

“Many assumed that it was too great a leap, that our ideas were too radical – contrary to the prevailing narrative,” she stated, pointing to her decisive election win.

“Through nationwide dialogues, however, it became clear that the dominant narrative did not represent people’s values and concerns. 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 the historic venue, the 68-year-old former barrister declared that as Ireland’s 10th president, 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 strong endorsement to articulate their vision for a renewed nation, a republic true to its principles where everyone is valued and diversity is cherished, where eco-friendly policies are swiftly enacted, 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 role is primarily symbolic, the previous officeholder had stretched the constraints, turning it into a platform for issues—a practice the new president will likely uphold.

In a venue filled with government figures, diplomats, and other dignitaries, the president lamented “the normalisation of war and atrocities.”

Praising Ireland’s non-alignment—a potential source of friction with the government—she said: “Our history under foreign rule and resistance of a catastrophic man-made famine gives us a deep empathy of loss, 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 major group declined to send a representative but clarified it was not a deliberate omission.

Switching to Irish, she repeated a commitment to elevate Irish in the presidential office and residence. “Gaelic will not be whispered in the Áras, it will have first place as a language of business.”

No nation can voice its aspirations if the native language spoken by ancestors was extinguished, she commented. “It has been relegated without due honour or acknowledgement. The national spirit were quenched when they were made to stop using their own language. It’s a language that conveys emotion and sentiment with every word.”

A artillery tribute was sounded as the head of state received the seal of office.