PRESIDENT Catherine Connolly has urged people never to accept the “normalisation of war”.
In her St Patrick’s Day message, President Connolly spoke of how now, more than ever, “we must renew our commitment to peace and diplomacy in line with the principles of international law as set out in the United Nations Charter”.
The message comes just days after President Connolly paid her first official visit to Donegal, fulfilling a promise she made on her election campaign to return to the county.
During her two-day visit to Donegal, President Connolly, pictured right, addressed council chamber in Lifford, met with Cara House Family Resource Centre in Letterkenny and with representatives from Donegal Travellers Projected.
She concluded her engagements with a visit to Ardara Community Childcare Centre.
In her St Patrick’s Day message, President Connolly said: “Whether we are Irish by birth or indeed by choice, today is an occasion when Irish communities around the world celebrate their shared love of all things Irish – our culture, heritage, identity and of course our beautiful language, Gaeilge.
“It is a testament to that rich heritage and culture that Saint Patrick’s Day has become such a vibrant and inclusive global celebration.
“It is embraced by an Irish global family of over 70 million people, many of whom have found new homes abroad and built communities over many years. That sense of home resonates so strongly with all of us, and yet today it is denied to so many.”
President Connolly added that as people gather to celebrate St Patrick’s Day, she said it is appropriate to recall the foundational story upon which the country’s national day is based.
“Patrick was trafficked across the Irish Sea from Britain as a young man in the 5th century only to return to Ireland as a missionary, giving voice and his life to fostering an awareness of the consequences of slavery.
“The story of Patrick’s life serves as a reminder of the resilience and courage of migrants, the invaluable contributions that they have made, and continue to make, to the countries they now call home, sometimes even in the face of great adversity.”
She said Patrick’s story speaks not only to the Ireland of the 5th century, but to the millions still subjected to trafficking, forced labour and displacement today.
“As we recall the life of Patrick, we invoke his spirit and acknowledge our shared responsibilities as global citizens. We stand in solidarity with those who find themselves in vulnerable and dangerous circumstances.
“Patrick’s story invites us to respond with hospitality and kindness to those suffering the consequences of war and displacement, those fleeing their countries because of persecution or violence.
“The normalisation of war can never be accepted. Now, more than ever, we must renew our commitment to peace and diplomacy in line with the principles of international law as set out in the United Nations Charter.
“As a neutral, independent country, a post-colonial society, and a people marked by famine and forced migration, we are uniquely placed to offer a valuable perspective on the challenges facing our world, not least war and displacement.
Legacy
“We are a people who have travelled our own path to peace in dealing with bitter conflict and its legacy.
“We understand that peace is not merely the absence of war but also the presence of justice.”
President Connolly concluded by adding: “As we celebrate our special day, let us look to the future with hope, determination, a renewed respect for our shared humanity, and use our voice to promote justice and peace in our world.”