Ireland's President Catherine Connolly to meet with King Charles during three-day visit to UK

Irish President Catherine Connolly commenced her inaugural official visit to England today, highlighting the profound impact of Irish people on British society during an address at the Irish Cultural Centre in Hammersmith.

The Galway-born politician, who took office in November, praised the wide-ranging contributions made by the Irish community across the UK.

Ms Connolly told attendees: "The Irish contribution to British society is as diverse as can be imagined.

"From the arts and culture, to healthcare, education, construction and infrastructure, as well as professional, scientific and technical services."

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She added that "hardly a sector of the economy or an area of life" remained untouched by Irish influence in Britain.

During her time at the Hammersmith centre, the president also met participants in an Irish language class.

This evening, Irish ambassador Martin Fraser and Deirdre Fraser will host a reception at the embassy in honour of Ms Connolly and her husband, Brian McEnery.

The three-day trip will see the president visit the Chelsea Flower Show on Tuesday, followed by the London Irish Centre in Camden.

An engagement with King Charles is also anticipated during the visit.

Ms Connolly pledged during her inauguration to prioritise connections with the Irish diaspora, a commitment this trip clearly reflects.

The visit concludes on Wednesday with engagements in Leeds, where Ms Connolly will tour Leeds University and the Leeds Irish Centre.

While in the northern city, she will receive a briefing on the Irish Health Centre's work and hold meetings with representatives from other Irish community organisations across the region.

This UK trip marks the president's third official overseas engagement since assuming office, following earlier visits to Northern Ireland and Spain.

Ms Connolly's itinerary this week spans cultural institutions, healthcare services and educational establishments across both London and Leeds.

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