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

In her inauguration address, Connolly outlined a leftwing alternative diverging from the centre-right orthodoxy.

“We were led to believe that it was too great a leap, that our ideas were too radical – at odds with the prevailing narrative,” she stated, referencing her decisive election win.

“In shared conversations, however, it became evident that the dominant narrative did not represent people’s values and concerns. Repeatedly, people spoke of how it tended to suppress, to marginalise, to label, to exclude and to hinder independent thought.”

On a ceremonial occasion at Dublin Castle, the 68-year-old former barrister declared that as Ireland’s new head of state, she would ensure “all voices” were heard and would promote environmental measures, acceptance, and a resurgence of Irish culture.

“Voters have made their choice and have given their president a strong endorsement to articulate their vision for a renewed nation, a republic worthy of its name where everyone is valued and differences are celebrated, where eco-friendly policies are swiftly enacted, and where a housing is guaranteed for all.”

The presidential race outcome shocked the political establishment. The non-aligned progressive candidate united opposition leftwing parties, energised young voters, and defeated the mainstream opponent by securing a substantial majority.

Though the presidency is a largely ceremonial post, the outgoing president had expanded its influence, turning it into a voice for causes—a practice the new president will likely uphold.

In a venue filled with officials, diplomats, and distinguished guests, the president expressed regret over “the normalisation of war and genocide.”

Praising Ireland’s non-alignment—a potential source of friction with the government—she asserted: “Our history under foreign rule and struggle against historic hardships gives us a deep empathy of dispossession, famine, and war and a call for national leadership.”

The president additionally praised the Good Friday agreement and cited article 3 of Ireland’s constitution that supports national unity with agreement. One political party did not attend but clarified it was not a deliberate omission.

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

No country can voice its aspirations if the indigenous tongue used forebears was extinguished, she said. “It has been relegated without due honour or recognition. The national spirit were quenched when they were made to stop using their mother tongue. It’s a language that conveys emotion and meaning with every word.”

A artillery tribute was sounded as the new president received the seal of office.