'Normalisation of war can never be accepted, says Catherine Connolly in St Patrick's Day address

The message comes as Micheál Martin is due to meet Donald Trump

While giving her St Patrick's Day speech, President Connolly said Irish people are "uniquely placed to offer a valuable perspective", as her speech focused on the war. Picture: Sam Boal/Collins Photos.

“The normalisation of war can never be accepted,” President Catherine Connolly has said the "normalisation of war can never be accepted", as Taoiseach Micheál Martin is due to meet US president Donald Trump.

In her first St Patrick's Day address to the nation, President Connolly said that "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", "now more than ever".

While giving her St Patrick's Day speech, President Connolly said Irish people are "uniquely placed to offer a valuable perspective", as her speech focused on the war.

President Connolly said: "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.

"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.

"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."

Her address took place as Mr Martin is getting ready for meeting Mr Trump in the Oval Office this Monday.

In her address, Ms Connolly recalled the "foundational story" on which St Patrick's 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.

"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," she said.

The President emphasised Patrick's story is one of "hospitality and kindness".

She added: "We stand in solidarity with those who find themselves in vulnerable and dangerous circumstances."