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Catherine Connolly has vowed to reshape Ireland into a “nation that lives up to its ideals” by championing inclusion, the Gaelic tongue, and the history of independence.

In her inauguration address, Connolly presented a progressive vision contrasting with the mainstream political consensus.

“We were led to believe that it was too great a leap, that our ideas were too far out – contrary to the prevailing narrative,” she remarked, pointing to her decisive election win.

“Through nationwide dialogues, however, it became evident that the mainstream message did not reflect people’s values and concerns. Repeatedly, people spoke of how it tended to suppress, to other, to categorise, to exclude and to hinder independent thought.”

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

“Voters have made their choice and have given their president a strong endorsement to voice shared aspirations for a renewed nation, a republic true to its principles where each person matters and differences are celebrated, where eco-friendly policies are swiftly enacted, and where a housing is guaranteed for all.”

Connolly’s election shocked the political establishment. The independent leftwing legislator brought together progressive factions, mobilised the youth, and trounced the ruling party’s candidate by winning 64% of the vote.

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

In a ballroom packed with government figures, ambassadors, and distinguished guests, Connolly expressed regret over “the acceptance of conflict and genocide.”

Praising Ireland’s neutrality—a possible point of disagreement with the government—she asserted: “Our history under foreign rule and resistance of a catastrophic man-made famine gives us a deep empathy of loss, famine, and war and a mandate for Ireland to lead.”

Connolly also hailed the peace accord and cited constitutional provisions that espouses a united Ireland with agreement. One political party declined to send a representative but clarified it was not a deliberate omission.

Switching to Irish, she repeated a commitment to prioritise the language in the presidential office and residence. “Irish will not be spoken in a low voice in the Áras, it will have primary status as a working language.”

No country can express its desires if the native language used forebears was lost, she commented. “It has been put in second place without sufficient respect or recognition. The national spirit were dampened when they were prevented from speaking their own language. It’s a language that conveys emotion and meaning with each phrase.”

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