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Catherine Connolly has pledged to transform Ireland into a “nation that lives up to its ideals” by advocating for inclusion, the Irish language, and the history of independence.

During her swearing-in speech, Connolly presented a leftwing alternative contrasting with the centre-right orthodoxy.

“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, referencing her landslide victory.

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

On a ceremonial occasion at Dublin Castle, the experienced legal professional affirmed 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 powerful mandate to voice shared aspirations for a renewed nation, a republic true to its principles where each person matters and differences are celebrated, where sustainable solutions are swiftly enacted, and where a home is a fundamental human right.”

The presidential race outcome surprised traditional parties. The non-aligned progressive candidate 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 previous officeholder had stretched the constraints, turning it into a voice for causes—a tradition the new president will likely uphold.

In a venue filled with officials, ambassadors, and distinguished guests, Connolly expressed regret over “the normalisation of war and atrocities.”

Praising Ireland’s non-alignment—a potential source of friction with the government—she asserted: “Our experience of colonisation and struggle against historic hardships gives us a deep empathy of loss, famine, and conflict and a call for national leadership.”

Connolly also hailed the peace accord and cited article 3 of Ireland’s constitution that espouses a united Ireland with agreement. One political party did not attend but said no snub was intended.

Speaking in Gaelic, Connolly reaffirmed a pledge to elevate Irish in the presidential office and residence. “Irish will not be spoken in a low voice in the Áras, it will have primary status as a language of business.”

No country can express its desires if the native language spoken by ancestors was lost, she commented. “It has been relegated without sufficient respect or recognition. The hearts of our people were dampened when they were made to stop using their own language. It’s a language that conveys emotion and meaning with every word.”

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