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Catherine Connolly has vowed to transform Ireland into a “republic worthy of its name” by championing inclusion, the Irish language, and the legacy of decolonisation.

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

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

“In shared conversations, however, it became evident that the mainstream message did not reflect people’s hopes and fears. Repeatedly, people spoke of how it tended to suppress, to marginalise, to categorise, to shut out and to stifle critical thinking.”

On a ceremonial occasion at Dublin Castle, the 68-year-old former barrister declared that as Ireland’s new head of state, she would amplify diverse perspectives and would advance climate action, tolerance, and a Gaelic revival.

“Voters have made their choice and have given their president a powerful mandate to articulate their vision for a new republic, a republic true to its principles where each person matters and differences are celebrated, where eco-friendly policies are swiftly enacted, and where a home is a fundamental human right.”

The presidential race outcome shocked the political establishment. The non-aligned progressive candidate brought together progressive factions, mobilised the youth, and defeated the mainstream opponent by winning 64% of the vote.

Though the presidency is a largely ceremonial post, the previous officeholder had expanded its influence, turning it into a voice for causes—a practice Connolly is expected to continue.

In a venue filled with government figures, diplomats, and other dignitaries, Connolly lamented “the normalisation of war 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, famine, and war and a call for national leadership.”

The president additionally praised the peace accord and referenced constitutional provisions that supports national unity with agreement. One political party did not attend but said no snub was intended.

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 Áras, it will have first place as a language of business.”

No country can express its desires if the indigenous tongue used forebears was extinguished, she commented. “It has been relegated without due honour or recognition. The national spirit were quenched when they were made to stop using their own language. It’s a language that conveys emotion and sentiment with each phrase.”

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