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Catherine Connolly has vowed to transform Ireland into a “nation that lives up to its ideals” by advocating for diversity, the Gaelic tongue, and the legacy of decolonisation.

In her inauguration address, the president outlined a progressive vision diverging from the centre-right orthodoxy.

“Many assumed that it was too great a leap, that our ideas were too radical – at odds with the dominant discourse,” she remarked, pointing to her landslide victory.

“Through nationwide dialogues, however, it became evident that the mainstream message did not reflect people’s hopes and fears. Time and time again, people spoke of how it served to silence, to marginalise, to label, to exclude and to stifle critical thinking.”

On a day marked by pomp 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 environmental measures, acceptance, and a resurgence of Irish culture.

“Voters have made their choice and have given their president a strong endorsement to articulate their vision for a renewed nation, a republic worthy of its name where everyone is valued and diversity is cherished, where sustainable solutions are swiftly enacted, and where a home is a fundamental human right.”

Connolly’s election shocked the political establishment. The non-aligned progressive candidate 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 venue filled with officials, ambassadors, and other dignitaries, the president expressed regret over “the acceptance of conflict and atrocities.”

Commending Ireland’s non-alignment—a potential source of friction with the government—she said: “Our experience of colonisation and struggle against historic hardships gives us a lived understanding of loss, hunger, and conflict and a mandate for Ireland to lead.”

The president additionally praised the Good Friday agreement and referenced article 3 of Ireland’s constitution that supports national unity 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 prioritise the language in the official home. “Gaelic will not be whispered in the Áras, it will have primary status as a language of business.”

No country can voice its aspirations if the native language spoken by ancestors was extinguished, she commented. “It has been relegated without due honour or recognition. The hearts of our people were quenched when they were made to stop using their mother tongue. It’s a language that expresses feelings and sentiment with every word.”

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