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 other commitments on Remembrance Day.
Attendance and Commitments
Although Emma Little-Pengelly received an invitation to the inauguration, she explained that she has prior engagements that prevent her attendance. First Minister Michelle O’Neill will represent Northern Ireland at the event held in Dublin Castle.
Reasons for Absence
Little-Pengelly stated:
“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.”
She is scheduled to attend a service and participate in an Act of Remembrance at Parliament Buildings. Afterwards, she will travel to Windsor Castle for a special reception hosted by Their Majesties The King and Queen, commemorating the 80th anniversary of VJ Day to honor Second World War veterans, particularly those from the Pacific.
Best Wishes to President Connolly
Emma Little-Pengelly expressed her good wishes to Catherine Connolly, recognizing the inauguration as a significant personal honor:
“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 will miss Catherine Connolly's presidential inauguration due to Remembrance Day commitments, highlighting her dedication to honoring veterans and extending her best wishes to the new president.