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Catherine Connolly has vowed to reshape Ireland into a “republic worthy of its name” by championing diversity, the Gaelic tongue, and the legacy of decolonisation.

In her inauguration address, the president presented a progressive vision 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 prevailing narrative,” she stated, referencing her landslide victory.

“Through nationwide dialogues, however, it became evident that the mainstream message did not reflect people’s values and concerns. Repeatedly, people spoke of how it tended to suppress, to marginalise, to label, to shut out and to hinder independent thought.”

On a day marked by pomp at Dublin Castle, the experienced legal professional affirmed that as Ireland’s 10th president, she would ensure “all voices” were heard and would promote climate action, tolerance, and a Gaelic revival.

“Voters have made their choice and have given their president a strong endorsement to voice shared aspirations for a renewed nation, a republic worthy of its name where each person matters and differences are celebrated, where eco-friendly policies are urgently implemented, and where a home is a fundamental human right.”

The presidential race outcome shocked the political establishment. The non-aligned progressive candidate brought together progressive factions, energised young voters, and defeated the mainstream opponent by winning 64% of the vote.

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 government figures, ambassadors, and other dignitaries, Connolly expressed regret over “the normalisation of war and genocide.”

Commending Ireland’s neutrality—a possible point of disagreement with the government—she said: “Our history under foreign rule and resistance of a catastrophic man-made famine gives us a deep empathy of loss, hunger, and conflict and a call for national leadership.”

Connolly also hailed the peace accord and referenced constitutional provisions that espouses a united Ireland with consent. One political party declined to send a representative but clarified it was not a deliberate omission.

Speaking in Gaelic, she repeated a commitment to elevate Irish in the presidential office and residence. “Gaelic will not be whispered in the Áras, it will have first place as a working language.”

No country can voice its aspirations if the native language used forebears was extinguished, she said. “It has been relegated without sufficient respect or recognition. The hearts of our people were quenched when they were prevented from speaking their own language. It’s a language that conveys emotion and sentiment with every word.”

A artillery tribute was fired as the head of state received the seal of office.