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

In her inauguration address, Connolly outlined a leftwing alternative contrasting with the centre-right orthodoxy.

“We were led to believe that it was too great a leap, that our ideas were too radical – at odds with the dominant discourse,” she remarked, pointing to her decisive election win.

“In shared conversations, however, it became clear that the dominant narrative did not represent 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 ceremonial occasion 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 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 worthy of its name where everyone is valued and differences are celebrated, where eco-friendly policies are urgently implemented, and where a housing is guaranteed for all.”

Connolly’s election surprised traditional parties. The independent leftwing legislator brought together progressive factions, mobilised the youth, and defeated the mainstream opponent by securing a substantial majority.

Though the presidency is a largely ceremonial post, the outgoing president 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, ambassadors, and other dignitaries, the president expressed regret over “the acceptance of conflict and genocide.”

Commending Ireland’s non-alignment—a potential source of friction with the government—she said: “Our experience of colonisation and struggle against historic hardships gives us a lived understanding of dispossession, famine, and conflict and a mandate for Ireland to lead.”

Connolly also hailed the peace accord and cited constitutional provisions that supports national unity with consent. One major group declined to send a representative but clarified it was not a deliberate omission.

Switching to Irish, Connolly reaffirmed a pledge to elevate Irish in the presidential office and residence. “Gaelic will not be whispered in the residence, it will have first place as a language of business.”

No nation can express its desires if the indigenous tongue used forebears was extinguished, she said. “It has been relegated without sufficient respect or acknowledgement. The hearts of our people were quenched when they were prevented from speaking their mother tongue. It’s a language that expresses feelings and meaning with each phrase.”

A artillery tribute was fired as the new president received the seal of office.