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

During her swearing-in speech, the president outlined a progressive vision contrasting with the mainstream political consensus.

“We were led to believe that it was an impossible step, that our ideas were too far out – contrary to the dominant discourse,” she remarked, referencing her landslide victory.

“In shared conversations, however, it became clear that the mainstream message did not represent people’s values and concerns. Time and time again, people spoke of how it tended to suppress, to other, to label, to exclude and to hinder independent thought.”

On a ceremonial occasion at the historic venue, the experienced legal professional declared that as Ireland’s new head of state, she would amplify diverse perspectives and would advance environmental measures, tolerance, and a resurgence of Irish culture.

“The people have spoken and have given their president a powerful mandate 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 swiftly enacted, and where a home is a fundamental human right.”

Connolly’s election shocked the political establishment. The non-aligned progressive candidate brought together progressive factions, energised young voters, and trounced the mainstream opponent by winning 64% of the vote.

Though the role is primarily symbolic, the previous officeholder 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, ambassadors, and other dignitaries, Connolly expressed regret over “the acceptance of conflict and atrocities.”

Commending Ireland’s neutrality—a potential source of friction with the government—she asserted: “Our experience of colonisation and resistance of a catastrophic man-made famine gives us a lived understanding of dispossession, hunger, and war and a call for national leadership.”

Connolly also hailed the peace accord and cited constitutional provisions that supports national unity with consent. One major group declined to send a representative but clarified it was not a deliberate omission.

Speaking in Gaelic, Connolly reaffirmed a pledge to prioritise the language in the official home. “Gaelic will not be whispered in the Áras, it will have first place as a working language.”

No country can express its desires if the indigenous tongue used forebears was lost, she said. “It has been relegated without sufficient respect or acknowledgement. The hearts of our people were quenched when they were prevented from speaking their own language. It’s a language that expresses feelings and sentiment with every word.”

A artillery tribute was sounded as the new president was formally invested.