Emma Little-Pengelly Will Not Attend Catherine Connolly's Inauguration
Northern Ireland’s deputy First Minister, Emma Little-Pengelly, announced she will not attend the inauguration of Ireland’s next president, Catherine Connolly, due to prior commitments on Remembrance Day.
Reason for Absence
Though invited, Little-Pengelly explained she has important engagements in Belfast and Windsor on the day of the inauguration:
- Participation in a Remembrance Day service and Act of Remembrance at Parliament Buildings.
- Attendance at a special reception at Windsor Castle, invited by Their Majesties The King and Queen, commemorating the 80th anniversary of VJ Day to honor World War II veterans, specifically from the Pacific.
“Tuesday marks Remembrance Day, an important day for so many. I am scheduled to attend a service and to participate in an Act of Remembrance in Parliament Buildings before travelling to Windsor Castle at the invitation of Their Majesties The King and Queen for a special reception to commemorate VJ Day 80th anniversary to honour veterans of the Second World War, and in particular of the Pacific on this day of remembrance.”
Other Attendance
First Minister Michelle O’Neill will represent Northern Ireland by attending the inauguration ceremony at Dublin Castle.
“I have received an invitation for the inauguration events for the Irish president on Tuesday but it will not be possible for me to accept due to a number of other commitments in Belfast and Windsor.”
Well Wishes to Catherine Connolly
Little-Pengelly expressed her good wishes to the new president and hopes to speak with her soon:
“I wish Catherine Connolly well as she takes up office, recognising that this is undoubtedly a significant personal honour for her, and I hope to speak with her personally in the next number of days.”
Deputy First Minister Emma Little-Pengelly prioritizes Remembrance Day commitments over the president's inauguration while expressing respect and best wishes to Catherine Connolly.