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

During her swearing-in speech, Connolly outlined a leftwing alternative diverging from the mainstream political consensus.

“We were led to believe that it was too great a leap, that our ideas were too far out – at odds with the prevailing narrative,” she stated, referencing her landslide victory.

“Through nationwide dialogues, however, it became evident that the dominant narrative did not represent people’s values and concerns. Time and time again, people spoke of how it served to silence, to other, to label, to exclude 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 environmental measures, acceptance, and a resurgence of Irish culture.

“The people have spoken and have given their president a powerful mandate to voice shared aspirations for a renewed nation, a republic true to its principles where everyone is valued and differences are celebrated, where sustainable solutions are urgently implemented, and where a housing is guaranteed for all.”

The presidential race outcome shocked the political establishment. The independent leftwing legislator brought together progressive factions, energised young voters, and trounced the ruling party’s candidate 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 platform for issues—a tradition the new president will likely uphold.

In a venue filled with officials, ambassadors, and other dignitaries, Connolly lamented “the normalisation of war and atrocities.”

Commending Ireland’s neutrality—a possible point of disagreement with the government—she said: “Our history under foreign rule and struggle against historic hardships gives us a deep empathy of loss, hunger, and conflict and a mandate for Ireland to lead.”

The president additionally praised the peace accord and cited constitutional provisions that espouses a united Ireland with agreement. One major group declined to send a representative but clarified it was not a deliberate omission.

Switching to Irish, she repeated a commitment to elevate Irish in the official home. “Gaelic will not be whispered in the Áras, it will have primary status as a language of business.”

No nation can express its desires if the native language used forebears was extinguished, she said. “It has been relegated without sufficient respect or recognition. The hearts of our people were quenched when they were prevented from speaking their own language. It’s a language that conveys emotion and sentiment with every word.”

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