President Catherine Connolly: Now, more than ever, we must renew our commitment to peace and diplomacy. Photograph: InphoPresident Catherine Connolly has said the “normalisation of war can never be accepted” in her first St Patrick’s Day message since taking office. In her St Patrick’s Day message, the president struck a more reflective tone while again emphasising the importance of diplomacy and humanitarian principles. “Patrick’s story invites us to respond with hospitality and kindness to those suffering the consequences of war and displacement,” she said. “We understand that peace is not merely the absence of war but also the presence of justice,” she said.

Source: The Irish Times March 16, 2026 01:32 UTC