PRESIDENT CATHERINE CONNOLLY hosted a visit from Swedish climate activist Greta Thunberg to Áras an Uachtaráin today, while also greeting runners taking part in a Gaza solidarity fundraiser organised by a member of Kneecap.

The President’s office confirmed that Thunberg visited the Áras on a courtesy call this afternoon.

President Connolly pictured with Greta Thunberg in the Áras today. President.ie President.ie

The visit comes ahead of her participation in a public fundraising event (An Evening of Words and Songs for Gaza) at Bohemian FC’s Dalymount Stadium tomorrow evening in support of humanitarian aid for families in Gaza.

The event will be co-hosted by Dr. Mohammed Abu Mughaisib, the deputy medical coordinator for Médecins Sans Frontières’ operations in Palestine, and Caoimhe Butterly, an Irish activist who participated in two flotillas to Gaza alongside Greta earlier this year.

Following her visit to the Áras, Greta visited Bang bang Café in Phibsborough, which is co-owned by Bohs’ COO Daniel Lambert, who also manages Irish rap group Kneecap.

Earlier in the day, President Connolly waved on a 10km charity run organised by Kneecap, which began at Dalymount Park and passed through the Phoenix Park.

The run conveniently passed by the back garden of the Áras, where the president greeted the runners.

The run was led by Kneecap member Naoise Ó Cairealláin, known as Móglaí Bap, and raised funds for the Gaza Food and Play project.

Kneecap member Móglaí Bap pictured during the run. Brian Lawless / PA Wire Brian Lawless / PA Wire / PA Wire

More than 200 runners took part, many carrying Palestinian flags and wearing Bohemian FC jerseys.

As the group approached a gap in the hedge at Áras an Uachtaráin, President Connolly (an avid runner herself) encouraged them as they continued their route, and spoke briefly with Móglaí Bap.

“Was great to meet ‘El Presidente’ today,” Kneecap said in a post on social media after the run.

Was great to meet 'El Presidente' today 💚🤍🧡

👉https://t.co/8h27kiG9uI pic.twitter.com/LSkY3oevnQ

— KNEECAP (@KNEECAPCEOL) December 17, 2025