Emma Little-Pengelly Will Not Attend Catherine Connolly's Inauguration
Northern Ireland’s deputy First Minister, Emma Little-Pengelly, announced she will not be attending the inauguration of Ireland’s next president, Catherine Connolly, due to prior commitments on Remembrance Day.
Reason for Absence
Although she received an invitation to the inauguration event, Little-Pengelly explained that she has other important engagements on Tuesday, which marks Remembrance Day.
“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.”
Details of Commitments
Little-Pengelly detailed her schedule, saying she will attend a service and participate in an Act of Remembrance at Parliament Buildings. She will then travel to Windsor Castle at the invitation of Their Majesties The King and Queen for a special reception commemorating the 80th anniversary of VJ Day, to honor veterans of the Second World War, particularly in 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 attend the inauguration at Dublin Castle, representing Northern Ireland at the event.
Messages to the President
Little-Pengelly sent her best wishes to President Connolly and expressed hope 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.”
Summary: Emma Little-Pengelly will miss the inauguration of Ireland’s new president due to key Remembrance Day commitments but extends her congratulations and aims to connect with Catherine Connolly soon.