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Catherine Connolly has vowed to reshape Ireland into a “nation that lives up to its ideals” by advocating for inclusion, the Irish language, and the history of independence.

During her swearing-in speech, Connolly presented a progressive vision contrasting with the centre-right orthodoxy.

“Many assumed that it was an impossible step, that our ideas were too far out – contrary to the prevailing narrative,” she remarked, referencing her decisive election win.

“Through nationwide dialogues, however, it became clear 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 day marked by pomp at the historic venue, the 68-year-old former barrister declared that as Ireland’s 10th president, she would ensure “all voices” were heard and would promote environmental measures, acceptance, and a Gaelic revival.

“The people have spoken and have given their president a strong endorsement to articulate their vision for a renewed nation, a republic true to its principles where everyone is valued and differences are celebrated, where sustainable solutions 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 ruling party’s candidate by winning 64% of the vote.

Though the presidency is a largely ceremonial post, the outgoing president had expanded its influence, turning it into a platform for issues—a practice Connolly is expected to continue.

In a venue filled with government figures, ambassadors, and distinguished guests, the president expressed regret over “the normalisation of war and genocide.”

Praising Ireland’s non-alignment—a potential source of friction with the government—she asserted: “Our history under foreign rule and resistance of a catastrophic man-made famine gives us a lived understanding of loss, famine, and war and a mandate for Ireland to lead.”

Connolly also hailed the peace accord and referenced constitutional provisions that supports national unity with consent. One political party did not attend 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. “Gaelic will not be whispered in the Áras, it will have first place as a working language.”

No nation can express its desires if the native language spoken by ancestors was extinguished, she said. “It has been relegated without sufficient respect or acknowledgement. The national spirit were dampened when they were made to stop using their mother tongue. It’s a language that expresses feelings and meaning with every word.”

A 21-gun salute was fired as the new president was formally invested.