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

During her swearing-in speech, Connolly presented a leftwing alternative contrasting with the mainstream political consensus.

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

“Through nationwide dialogues, however, it became evident that the dominant narrative did not reflect people’s hopes and fears. Time and time again, people spoke of how it served to silence, to other, to label, to shut out and to hinder independent thought.”

On a ceremonial occasion at Dublin Castle, the 68-year-old former barrister affirmed that as Ireland’s 10th president, 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 voice shared aspirations for a renewed nation, a republic worthy of its name where everyone is valued and diversity is cherished, where sustainable solutions are swiftly enacted, and where a home is a fundamental human right.”

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 winning 64% of the vote.

Though the role is primarily symbolic, the outgoing president had expanded its influence, turning it into a platform for issues—a practice Connolly is expected to continue.

In a ballroom packed 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 asserted: “Our experience of colonisation and struggle against historic hardships gives us a lived understanding of dispossession, hunger, and conflict and a call for national leadership.”

The president additionally praised the Good Friday agreement and cited constitutional provisions that supports national unity with consent. One political party declined to send a representative 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 first place as a language of business.”

No nation can express its desires if the indigenous tongue used forebears was extinguished, she commented. “It has been relegated without sufficient respect or recognition. The national spirit were dampened when they were made to stop using their mother tongue. It’s a language that conveys emotion and sentiment with each phrase.”

A 21-gun salute was sounded as the head of state was formally invested.