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

In her inauguration address, Connolly presented a leftwing alternative diverging from the mainstream political consensus.

“Many assumed that it was an impossible step, that our ideas were too radical – at odds with the prevailing narrative,” she stated, referencing her landslide victory.

“In shared conversations, however, it became clear that the mainstream message did not reflect people’s values and concerns. Time and time again, people spoke of how it tended to suppress, to marginalise, to categorise, to shut out and to hinder independent thought.”

On a day marked by pomp 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 advance environmental measures, acceptance, and a Gaelic revival.

“Voters have made their choice and have given their president a powerful mandate to voice shared aspirations for a new republic, a republic worthy of its name where each person matters and differences are celebrated, where eco-friendly policies are swiftly enacted, and where a housing is guaranteed for all.”

The presidential race outcome surprised traditional parties. The non-aligned progressive candidate brought together progressive factions, energised young voters, and trounced the mainstream opponent by securing a substantial majority.

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

In a ballroom packed with officials, diplomats, and distinguished guests, Connolly expressed regret over “the acceptance of conflict and atrocities.”

Commending Ireland’s non-alignment—a possible point of disagreement with the government—she asserted: “Our history under foreign rule 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 Good Friday agreement and referenced article 3 of Ireland’s constitution that supports national unity with agreement. One political party declined to send a representative but said no snub was intended.

Switching to Irish, Connolly reaffirmed a pledge to prioritise the language in the official home. “Irish will not be spoken in a low voice in the Áras, it will have primary status as a language of business.”

No nation can express its desires if the indigenous tongue spoken by ancestors was lost, she said. “It has been relegated without due honour 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 head of state was formally invested.