25 October 2025
SDLP Leader Claire Hanna MP has congratulated Catherine Connolly on her election as President of Ireland.
South Belfast and Mid Down MP Claire Hanna said:
“On behalf of the SDLP, I offer our sincere congratulations to Catherine Connolly on her election as President of Ireland. We also extend best wishes to Heather Humphreys and commend her commitment to reconciliation and to focused dialogue about the future of this island.
“The President of Ireland is far more than a symbolic figure. As well as representing this island on the world stage, past presidents have played a powerful healing role, reaching out to communities across the North and acting as a force for reconciliation and progress.
“The SDLP believes President Connolly can use her term to provide a platform for honest discussion about a New Ireland. This conversation is not going away, and the President has a unique convening role in helping to shape it.
“We welcome President Connolly’s remarks about her relationship with the North and would urge her to do everything possible to ensure this is the final time Irish citizens here are unable to vote in a presidential election.
“I look forward to meeting President Connolly in the weeks ahead and working with her throughout her term to build a better future for everyone on this island.”