President Connolly Welcomes Greta Thunberg Amid Gaza Fundraiser

President Catherine Connolly hosted Swedish climate activist Greta Thunberg today at Áras an Uachtaráin as part of a busy day that included a charity event supporting Gaza. The President’s office confirmed that Thunberg’s visit was a courtesy call ahead of her participation in a public fundraising event scheduled for tomorrow evening.

This event, titled An Evening of Words and Songs for Gaza, will take place at Bohemian FC’s Dalymount Stadium and aims to raise humanitarian aid for families affected by the ongoing crisis in Gaza. Co-hosting the event will be Dr. Mohammed Abu Mughaisib, the deputy medical coordinator for Médecins Sans Frontières in Palestine, along with Irish activist Caoimhe Butterly, who has previously participated in flotillas to Gaza with Thunberg earlier this year.

Following her visit to the presidential residence, Thunberg made a stop at Bang Bang Café in Phibsborough. The café is co-owned by Daniel Lambert, the Chief Operating Officer of Bohemian FC, who also manages the Irish rap group Kneecap.

Earlier in the day, President Connolly participated in a 10-kilometre charity run organized by Kneecap. The run commenced at Dalymount Park and wound through Phoenix Park, conveniently passing near the Áras. Connolly, an enthusiastic runner, greeted participants as they approached the presidential residence, offering encouragement and engaging briefly with Naoise Ó Cairealláin, known as Móglaí Bap, a member of Kneecap.

More than 200 runners took part in the event, many of them proudly displaying Palestinian flags and wearing Bohemian FC jerseys. Kneecap later shared a social media post stating, “Was great to meet ‘El Presidente’ today,” reflecting the positive atmosphere surrounding the event.

The charity run raised funds for the Gaza Food and Play project, highlighting the ongoing efforts to provide assistance to those in need in Gaza. As the group ran past the Áras, President Connolly’s active participation underscored her commitment to both athleticism and social causes.

This busy day of events illustrates the intersection of climate activism and humanitarian efforts, with Thunberg’s visit coinciding with initiatives aimed at raising awareness and funds for the crisis in Gaza. As the international community continues to address the humanitarian needs arising from the conflict, events like these serve as a reminder of the importance of solidarity and support for those affected.