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The newly inaugurated president has pledged to reshape Ireland into a “nation that lives up to its ideals” by championing diversity, the Gaelic tongue, and the history of independence.

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

“Many assumed that it was an impossible step, that our ideas were too radical – at odds with the dominant discourse,” she stated, referencing her landslide victory.

“Through nationwide dialogues, however, it became evident that the mainstream message did not represent people’s hopes and fears. Time and time again, people spoke of how it served to silence, to other, to categorise, to exclude and to stifle critical thinking.”

On a ceremonial occasion at the historic venue, the 68-year-old former barrister affirmed that as Ireland’s 10th president, she would amplify diverse perspectives and would advance climate action, tolerance, and a Gaelic revival.

“The people have spoken and have given their president a strong endorsement to articulate their vision for a new republic, a republic worthy of its name where each person matters and diversity is cherished, where eco-friendly policies are urgently implemented, and where a housing is guaranteed for all.”

The presidential race outcome surprised traditional parties. 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 outgoing president had expanded its influence, turning it into a voice for causes—a practice the new president will likely uphold.

In a venue filled with government figures, ambassadors, and distinguished guests, the president lamented “the normalisation of war and atrocities.”

Commending Ireland’s neutrality—a potential source of friction with the government—she asserted: “Our experience of colonisation and resistance of a catastrophic man-made famine gives us a lived understanding of loss, famine, and conflict and a call for national leadership.”

The president additionally praised the peace accord and referenced 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. “Irish will not be spoken in a low voice in the Áras, it will have primary status as a working language.”

No country can voice its aspirations if the native language used forebears was extinguished, she said. “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 head of state was formally invested.