Ms. O’Neill, emphasizing her commitment to serving as a “First Minister for all,” laid a laurel wreath at the Cenotaph in Belfast. The wreath bore a message that read, “As First Minister, I wish to take our society beyond old limits, to build bridges and a shared future together. Today I remember all lives lost in the horror of war and conflict – past and present.”

Joining Ms. O’Neill at the ceremony was DUP deputy First Minister Emma Little-Pengelly, who also laid a wreath. Hundreds gathered outside City Hall to watch members of the Armed Forces participate in the ceremony.

In her statement, Ms. O’Neill expressed her dedication to equal representation, saying, “I am committed to representing everyone equally. Through my words and actions, I will honor that commitment. We each have our own identity, experiences, and perspectives. As an Irish republican who believes in a united Ireland, I have my own perspective as well. But as we strive toward a better future, I am committed to moving beyond old limits and building bridges as First Minister.”

She added, “Only through understanding and respect for our differences can we create a stronger, respectful, and united society. I will not shy away from making difficult decisions that contribute to building a new Ireland, one marked by inclusion and respect for all traditions.”

Meanwhile, Secretary of State for Northern Ireland Hilary Benn attended the annual Remembrance Sunday commemoration at Enniskillen, where hundreds gathered in remembrance. The commemoration there holds a particularly solemn meaning, as it remembers the tragic bombing on November 8th, 1987, which killed eleven people and injured many more. A twelfth victim died years later, never having woken from a coma.

Taoiseach Simon Harris, on the advice that senior representatives of the Executive would not attend, chose not to participate in the commemoration – a rare departure from the tradition of the sitting Taoiseach’s attendance. However, the Government was represented by Fine Gael’s Heather Humphreys, the Social Protection Minister.

In Dublin, President Michael D. Higgins announced that he would lay a wreath at St. Patrick’s Cathedral in remembrance of all those who have died in war. Sinn Féin leader Mary Lou McDonald also confirmed her attendance at the service in Dublin.

Elsewhere across Northern Ireland, other commemorative events were held on Sunday to honour the memory of those lost in war.