Sligo County Council hosted a historic and heartfelt Civic Reception on Thursday evening, 15 January 2026, in honour of President of Ireland, Catherine Connolly, at County Hall, Sligo.
Civic Reception in Honour of President Catherine Connolly Held by Sligo County Council
Cathaoirleach of Sligo County Council, Cllr Dónal Gilroy welcoming President of Ireland, Catherine Connolly to County Hall
The event was hosted by Cathaoirleach, Cllr. Dónal Gilroy, and attended by elected representatives, the Executive of Sligo County Council, outstanding community contributors and volunteers.
In welcoming the President, the Cathaoirleach Cllr Gilroy spoke of the profound significance of her visit to the county:
“President Connolly, we are deeply privileged to have you here in Sligo. This is not just an official visit – it is a homecoming of sorts. Your long-standing family connections to Sligo, and your frequent visits over the years, make this evening especially meaningful for the people of our county.”
President Connolly was warmly welcomed by the Cathaoirleach and the assembled guests. In her address, the President spoke of her deep affection for Sligo, describing the county as a place of personal significance. She highlighted her close family ties, noting that two of her sisters live in Sligo, and reflected on the strong bond she has always felt with the area and its people.
President of Ireland, Catherine Connolly speaking at the Civic Reception held in her honour at County Hall
Cathaoirleach Cllr Dónal Gilroy speaking at the Civic Reception for President of Ireland, Catherine Connolly
Chief Executive of Sligo County Council, Martin Lydon, said the President’s visit was both an honour and an inspiration for the county:
“President Connolly’s presence in Sligo is a powerful affirmation of the spirit and identity of our community. Her long-standing connection to the county, combined with her commitment to fairness, cultural enrichment, and civic engagement, resonates strongly with our own values and ambitions. Her visit shines a national spotlight on Sligo at a time of great progress and renewal, and we are deeply grateful for her support and her interest in our work.”
The Civic Reception also highlighted significant developments within the county, including Sligo’s UNESCO World Heritage bid, major regeneration projects, and the county’s recent designation as Ireland’s Cleanest Town.
The evening concluded with warm expressions of appreciation to President Connolly for her ongoing engagement with Sligo and her commitment to visiting several locations across the county during her two-day itinerary.
President of Ireland, Catherine Connolly signing the Distinguished Visitors Book, alongside Cathaoirleach Cllr Dónal Gilroy
