Irish President warns of normalised war and genocide
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President Catherine Connolly of Ireland stated that world powers are allowing war and genocide to become commonplace, speaking from the Isle of Skye in Scotland.
She delivered these remarks as part of the annual Sabhal Mór Ostaig lecture, a prominent event hosted by the National Centre of Gaelic Language and Culture. Connolly expressed dismay that the United Nations’ core principles are being disregarded 80 years after its founding.
She specifically connected current conflicts to greed and the pursuit of power, noting the severe consequences for civilians who are killed or displaced. The President also warned that aggressive language from powerful nations is creating fear and contributing to global instability. Drawing on Gaelic poetry, Connolly emphasized the dangers of manipulative language used by those in power.
She then turned to the topic of language preservation, noting the shared challenges faced by both Ireland and Scotland in maintaining native languages like Gaeilge and Gaedhilg. Both languages face pressure from economic forces, such as the demand for holiday homes that drive up prices and displace local residents. However, Connolly praised collaborative efforts on Skye, between Sabhal Mór Ostaig, Comhairle na Gaidhealtachd, and the Community Housing Trust, to build 18 new affordable homes.
She believes this housing will help sustain the Gaedhilg language by allowing people to live and work on the island.
