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Catherine Connolly has pledged to transform Ireland into a “nation that lives up to its ideals” by advocating for diversity, the Gaelic tongue, and the legacy of decolonisation.

During her swearing-in speech, Connolly outlined a progressive vision diverging from the centre-right orthodoxy.

“Many assumed that it was too great a leap, that our ideas were too far out – contrary to the dominant discourse,” she remarked, pointing to her decisive election win.

“Through nationwide dialogues, however, it became evident that the mainstream message did not reflect people’s hopes and fears. Time and time again, people spoke of how it served to silence, to other, to label, to shut out and to hinder independent thought.”

On a day marked by pomp at the historic venue, the experienced legal professional affirmed that as Ireland’s 10th president, she would ensure “all voices” were heard 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 diversity is cherished, where sustainable solutions are swiftly enacted, and where a housing is guaranteed for all.”

Connolly’s election 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 role is primarily symbolic, the previous officeholder had expanded its influence, turning it into a platform for issues—a tradition Connolly is expected to continue.

In a ballroom packed with government figures, diplomats, and other dignitaries, the president expressed regret over “the acceptance of conflict and genocide.”

Praising Ireland’s non-alignment—a possible point of disagreement with the government—she said: “Our history under foreign rule and resistance of a catastrophic man-made famine gives us a lived understanding of dispossession, hunger, and conflict and a mandate for Ireland to lead.”

The president additionally praised the Good Friday agreement and cited article 3 of Ireland’s constitution that espouses a united Ireland with agreement. One major group declined to send a representative but clarified it was not a deliberate omission.

Speaking in Gaelic, she repeated a commitment to prioritise the language in the official home. “Irish will not be spoken in a low voice in the residence, it will have primary status as a language of business.”

No nation can voice its aspirations if the indigenous tongue spoken by ancestors was lost, she said. “It has been relegated without due honour or recognition. The national spirit were quenched when they were prevented from speaking their own language. It’s a language that expresses feelings and meaning with every word.”

A 21-gun salute was fired as the head of state received the seal of office.