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

During her swearing-in speech, the president outlined a progressive vision contrasting with the mainstream political consensus.

“Many assumed that it was an impossible step, that our ideas were too radical – at odds with the dominant discourse,” she remarked, referencing her decisive election win.

“In shared conversations, however, it became evident that the mainstream message did not represent people’s values and concerns. Time and time again, people spoke of how it served to silence, to marginalise, to label, to shut out and to hinder independent thought.”

On a ceremonial occasion at Dublin Castle, the 68-year-old former barrister declared that as Ireland’s 10th president, she would ensure “all voices” were heard and would promote 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 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 housing is guaranteed for all.”

Connolly’s election shocked the political establishment. The non-aligned progressive candidate united opposition leftwing parties, energised young voters, and trounced the mainstream opponent by securing a substantial majority.

Though the presidency is a largely ceremonial post, 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 distinguished guests, Connolly lamented “the acceptance of conflict and genocide.”

Praising Ireland’s neutrality—a potential source of friction with the government—she said: “Our experience of colonisation and resistance of a catastrophic man-made famine gives us a deep empathy of loss, hunger, and war and a mandate for Ireland to lead.”

The president additionally praised the peace accord and referenced constitutional provisions that espouses a united Ireland with consent. One political party declined to send a representative but said no snub was intended.

Speaking in Gaelic, she repeated a commitment to prioritise the language in the official home. “Irish will not be spoken in a low voice in the residence, it will have first place as a language of business.”

No country can express its desires if the native language spoken by ancestors was extinguished, she said. “It has been relegated without due honour or acknowledgement. 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 artillery tribute was sounded as the head of state was formally invested.