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Catherine Connolly has pledged to transform Ireland into a “nation that lives up to its ideals” by championing diversity, the Irish language, and the legacy of decolonisation.

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

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

“In shared conversations, 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 tended to suppress, to marginalise, to categorise, to shut out and to hinder independent thought.”

On a day marked by pomp at the historic venue, the 68-year-old former barrister affirmed that as Ireland’s new head of state, she would amplify diverse perspectives and would promote climate action, tolerance, and a resurgence of Irish culture.

“Voters have made their choice and have given their president a strong endorsement to articulate their vision for a renewed nation, a republic worthy of its name where everyone is valued and differences are celebrated, where sustainable solutions are swiftly enacted, and where a housing is guaranteed for all.”

The presidential race outcome surprised traditional parties. The independent leftwing legislator united opposition leftwing parties, energised young voters, and trounced the ruling party’s candidate by securing a substantial majority.

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

In a ballroom packed with government figures, ambassadors, and other dignitaries, Connolly lamented “the normalisation of war and genocide.”

Commending Ireland’s non-alignment—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 lived understanding of dispossession, famine, and conflict and a call for national leadership.”

Connolly also hailed the peace accord and cited constitutional provisions that supports national unity with consent. One major group did not attend but said no snub was intended.

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

No nation can express its desires if the native language spoken by ancestors was lost, she commented. “It has been put in second place without sufficient respect or recognition. The hearts of our people were dampened when they were made to stop using their own language. It’s a language that expresses feelings and meaning with every word.”

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