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

During her swearing-in speech, the president presented a leftwing alternative diverging from the mainstream political consensus.

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

“In shared conversations, however, it became clear that the mainstream message did not reflect people’s hopes and fears. Repeatedly, people spoke of how it served to silence, to other, to label, to shut out and to hinder independent thought.”

On a day marked by pomp at Dublin Castle, the experienced legal professional declared that as Ireland’s new head of state, she would ensure “all voices” were heard and would promote environmental measures, tolerance, and a Gaelic revival.

“Voters have made their choice and have given their president a strong endorsement to articulate their vision for a new republic, a republic true to its principles where each person matters and differences are celebrated, where eco-friendly policies are urgently implemented, and where a home is a fundamental human right.”

Connolly’s election surprised traditional parties. The non-aligned progressive candidate united opposition leftwing parties, energised young voters, and trounced the ruling party’s candidate by securing a substantial majority.

Though the presidency is a largely ceremonial post, the outgoing president had stretched the constraints, turning it into a platform for issues—a practice the new president will likely uphold.

In a ballroom packed with officials, ambassadors, and other dignitaries, Connolly expressed regret over “the acceptance of conflict and genocide.”

Praising Ireland’s neutrality—a potential source of friction with the government—she said: “Our history under foreign rule and struggle against historic hardships gives us a lived understanding of loss, famine, 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 major group did not attend but clarified it was not a deliberate omission.

Switching to Irish, 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 primary status as a working language.”

No nation 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 hearts of our people were quenched when they were prevented from speaking 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 was formally invested.