Overview
- In her inaugural Christmas message as President of Ireland, Catherine Connolly urged a society that elevates equality and human rights over profit and pressed for collective action on climate change.
- She framed the address with the winter solstice, saying the darkest days signal the gradual return of light and that better days lie ahead.
- Connolly expressed solidarity with people affected by conflict, displacement and climate impacts, naming Palestine, Ukraine and Sudan.
- She paid tribute to carers, healthcare staff, emergency services and thanked Defence Forces personnel serving overseas during the holidays.
- Addressing people at home and abroad, she highlighted Ireland’s history of emigration and delivered the message in both Irish and English.