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.
Although Emma Little-Pengelly received an invitation to the event, she stated it was not possible for her to accept because of other engagements scheduled in Belfast and Windsor. First Minister Michelle O’Neill will represent Northern Ireland at the inauguration held at Dublin Castle.
Reasons for Absence
Emma Little-Pengelly explained her absence:
“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. 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. It is therefore not possible to also attend the inauguration.”
She extended her good wishes to Catherine Connolly, recognizing the significance of the presidential office for her personally and expressed hope to meet 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.”
Summary
Emma Little-Pengelly’s decision respects the importance of Remembrance Day while acknowledging the significance of the presidential inauguration.