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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, the president outlined a progressive vision contrasting with the centre-right orthodoxy.

“Many assumed that it was an impossible step, that our ideas were too radical – at odds with the dominant discourse,” she remarked, pointing to her landslide victory.

“In shared conversations, however, it became evident that the dominant narrative 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 stifle critical thinking.”

On a day marked by pomp at Dublin Castle, the experienced legal professional declared that as Ireland’s 10th president, she would ensure “all voices” were heard and would promote climate action, tolerance, and a resurgence of Irish culture.

“Voters have made their choice and have given their president a powerful mandate to voice shared aspirations for a renewed nation, a republic worthy of its name where everyone is valued and differences are celebrated, where eco-friendly policies are urgently implemented, and where a home is a fundamental human right.”

The presidential race outcome surprised traditional parties. The non-aligned progressive candidate united opposition leftwing parties, mobilised the youth, and trounced the ruling party’s candidate by securing a substantial majority.

Though the presidency is a largely ceremonial post, the previous officeholder had stretched the constraints, turning it into a platform for issues—a practice Connolly is expected to continue.

In a venue filled with officials, diplomats, and distinguished guests, Connolly lamented “the normalisation of war and genocide.”

Commending Ireland’s neutrality—a potential source of friction with the government—she said: “Our history under foreign rule and struggle against historic hardships gives us a deep empathy of dispossession, famine, and conflict and a mandate for Ireland to lead.”

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

Speaking in Gaelic, Connolly repeated a commitment to elevate Irish in the presidential office and residence. “Gaelic will not be whispered in the residence, it will have primary status as a language of business.”

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

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