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The newly inaugurated president has vowed to transform Ireland into a “nation that lives up to its ideals” by championing diversity, the Irish language, and the history of independence.

In her inauguration address, the president outlined a progressive vision contrasting with the mainstream political consensus.

“We were led to believe that it was an impossible step, that our ideas were too far out – at odds with the prevailing narrative,” she remarked, referencing her landslide victory.

“In shared conversations, however, it became clear that the mainstream message did not reflect people’s hopes and fears. Repeatedly, people spoke of how it tended to suppress, to other, to categorise, to exclude and to hinder independent thought.”

On a ceremonial occasion at Dublin Castle, the experienced legal professional affirmed that as Ireland’s 10th president, she would amplify diverse perspectives and would promote environmental measures, acceptance, and a Gaelic revival.

“Voters have made their choice and have given their president a strong endorsement to articulate their vision for a new republic, a republic true to its principles where everyone is valued and differences are celebrated, where eco-friendly policies are swiftly enacted, and where a housing is guaranteed for all.”

The presidential race outcome shocked the political establishment. 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 stretched the constraints, turning it into a voice for causes—a practice the new president will likely uphold.

In a venue filled with officials, 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 history under foreign rule and struggle against historic hardships gives us a lived understanding of loss, famine, and war and a mandate for Ireland to lead.”

The president additionally praised the Good Friday agreement and referenced constitutional provisions that supports national unity with consent. One political party did not attend but clarified it was not a deliberate omission.

Speaking in Gaelic, 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 Áras, it will have primary status as a working language.”

No country can voice its aspirations if the indigenous tongue used forebears was lost, she said. “It has been put in second place without due honour or recognition. The hearts of our people were dampened when they were made to stop using their mother tongue. It’s a language that expresses feelings and sentiment with every word.”

A artillery tribute was fired as the new president was formally invested.