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Catherine Connolly has vowed to transform Ireland into a “republic worthy of its name” by championing diversity, the Gaelic tongue, 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 an impossible step, that our ideas were too radical – contrary to the prevailing narrative,” she remarked, referencing her decisive election win.

“In shared conversations, however, it became evident that the dominant narrative did not represent people’s values and concerns. Repeatedly, people spoke of how it served to silence, to other, to categorise, to shut out 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 ensure “all voices” were heard and would promote 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 worthy of its name where everyone is valued and differences are celebrated, where eco-friendly policies are swiftly enacted, and where a home is a fundamental human right.”

Connolly’s election surprised traditional parties. The independent leftwing legislator brought together progressive factions, energised young voters, and trounced the mainstream opponent by winning 64% of the vote.

Though the role is primarily symbolic, the previous officeholder had expanded its influence, turning it into a voice for causes—a practice the new president will likely uphold.

In a venue filled with officials, ambassadors, and other dignitaries, the president lamented “the acceptance of conflict and genocide.”

Praising Ireland’s neutrality—a possible point of disagreement with the government—she said: “Our experience of colonisation and resistance of a catastrophic man-made famine gives us a lived understanding of dispossession, famine, and conflict and a call for national leadership.”

The president additionally praised the peace accord and cited article 3 of Ireland’s constitution that supports national unity 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 Áras, it will have first place as a language of business.”

No country 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 national spirit were dampened when they were made to stop using their own language. It’s a language that expresses feelings and sentiment with every word.”

A artillery tribute was sounded as the new president received the seal of office.