Kildare Senator shows Ukraine’s First Lady around Dáil Eireann

KILDARE Senator Aubrey McCarthy was front and centre during President Volodymyr Zelenskyy’s state visit to Ireland this week, taking on the special role of accompanying First Lady Olena Zelenska into the Dáil chamber.

Senator Aubrey McCarthy serves as the Convenor of the Ireland–Ukraine Parliamentary Friendship Group. Through his Kildare-based charity, Tiglin, he has played a role in Ireland’s humanitarian response, providing housing and support for more than 150 Ukrainians displaced by war.

As convener of the Irish Ukraine Parliamentary Friendship Group, Senator McCarthy was asked to guide Mrs Zelenska while her husband delivered a landmark address to both Houses of the Oireachtas.

Senator McCarthy welcomed the First Lady into Leinster House, explaining the seating plan and traditions of the chamber. He also pointed out some of the notable artworks on display, including a portraits of a former Taoisigh, giving Mrs Zelenska a glimpse of Ireland’s political heritage.

“It was a profound honour to accompany Mrs Zelenska into the Dáil,” Senator McCarthy said afterwards. “Their presence reminded us of the resilience of the Ukrainian people and the importance of Ireland’s friendship with Ukraine.” The Kildare senator marked the occasion with a personal gesture, presenting Mrs Zelenska with a Newbridge Silverware St Brigid’s Cross pin. The gift carried particular resonance, as St Brigid is the patron saint of Kildare and her cross is a symbol of peace and protection.

“The St Brigid’s Cross is woven into the fabric of Kildare’s identity,” McCarthy explained. “It represents hope and shelter, values that resonate deeply with the Ukrainian people in their struggle for peace. Sharing this symbol was a way of extending the hand of friendship from Kildare to Kyiv.” The visit of President Zelenskyy and Mrs Zelenska was widely regarded as a landmark occasion, with it being the first official visit from a Ukrainian head of state to Ireland.