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, due to other commitments on Remembrance Day.

Invitation and Other Engagements

Though she received an invitation to the event at Dublin Castle, Little-Pengelly explained that she has prior obligations both in Belfast and Windsor. First Minister Michelle O’Neill will represent Northern Ireland at the inauguration.

Official Statement from Emma Little-Pengelly

“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.
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.”

Event Context

Summary

Emma Little-Pengelly will miss President Connolly’s inauguration due to her commitments on Remembrance Day, emphasizing the importance of honoring veterans during this time.

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inkl inkl — 2025-11-07

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