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Catherine Connolly has pledged to transform Ireland into a “nation that lives up to its ideals” by advocating for diversity, the Irish language, and the history of independence.

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

“Many assumed that it was too great a leap, that our ideas were too radical – contrary to the prevailing narrative,” she remarked, referencing her landslide victory.

“Through nationwide dialogues, however, it became clear that the mainstream message did not represent people’s hopes and fears. Repeatedly, people spoke of how it tended to suppress, to other, 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 amplify diverse perspectives and would promote environmental measures, tolerance, and a Gaelic revival.

“The people have spoken and have given their president a powerful mandate to articulate their vision for a new republic, a republic worthy of its name where everyone is valued and diversity is cherished, where eco-friendly policies are swiftly enacted, and where a housing is guaranteed for all.”

Connolly’s election surprised traditional parties. The non-aligned progressive candidate brought together progressive factions, mobilised the youth, and defeated the ruling party’s candidate by securing a substantial majority.

Though the role is primarily symbolic, the previous officeholder had stretched the constraints, turning it into a platform for issues—a tradition the new president will likely uphold.

In a venue filled with officials, ambassadors, and other dignitaries, the president expressed regret over “the acceptance of conflict and genocide.”

Praising Ireland’s non-alignment—a possible point of disagreement with the government—she said: “Our experience of colonisation and struggle against historic hardships gives us a lived understanding of loss, hunger, and conflict and a mandate for Ireland to lead.”

The president additionally praised the Good Friday agreement and referenced constitutional provisions that espouses a united Ireland with agreement. One major group declined to send a representative but said no snub was intended.

Switching to Irish, Connolly reaffirmed a pledge to prioritise the language in the presidential office and residence. “Gaelic will not be whispered in the residence, it will have first place as a language of business.”

No nation can voice its aspirations if the native language used forebears was lost, she said. “It has been relegated without due honour or acknowledgement. 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 each phrase.”

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