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 she received an invitation to the event, Ms. Little-Pengelly stated her schedule conflicts with important Remembrance Day observances. First Minister Michelle O’Neill will represent Northern Ireland at the inauguration held at Dublin Castle.
Reasons for Non-Attendance
Emma Little-Pengelly explained her planned activities on the day:
- Attendance at a Remembrance Day service
- Participation in an Act of Remembrance at Parliament Buildings in Belfast
- Travel to Windsor Castle for a special reception hosted by Their Majesties The King and Queen
The reception commemorates the 80th anniversary of VJ Day, honoring veterans of the Second World War, especially those who served 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.”
Ms. Little-Pengelly expressed her best wishes to Catherine Connolly and hopes 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.”
Author's summary: Emma Little-Pengelly will miss Catherine Connolly’s inauguration due to essential Remembrance Day duties, highlighting the day's solemn significance and international commemorations.