Emma Little-Pengelly will not attend Catherine Connolly inauguration

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, citing other commitments on Remembrance Day.

Reasons for Absence

Little-Pengelly confirmed she received an invitation for the event but had prior engagements that prevented her attendance. She explained:

“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, a day of significant importance for 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.”

Due to these commitments, she stated it was not possible to attend the inauguration.

Attendance by Others

First Minister Michelle O’Neill will represent Northern Ireland and attend the event at Dublin Castle.

Message to Catherine Connolly

Emma Little-Pengelly extended her best wishes to the newly inaugurated president:

“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.”

Author’s summary: Emma Little-Pengelly will miss Catherine Connolly’s inauguration due to Remembrance Day duties but sends her congratulations and hopes to connect soon.

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inkl inkl — 2025-11-07

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