It was with great sadness that we learned yesterday of the passing of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II.

The Queen's unwavering lifelong dedication and devotion will long be remembered. She was widely admired for her grace, dignity and warmth. She provided steadfast leadership to the people of her realms through many challenging times, from World War II to the COVID-19 pandemic. Throughout this time she endured much sadness and trauma in her own life and she will be remembered for her quiet resilience and stoicism.

Here in Ireland, we remember her visit to Dublin and Cork in 2011 with great fondness. Her Majesty’s visit was a triumph of diplomacy and cultural sensitivity – she understood the importance of symbols and from the very first day, her choice of attire signalled her intention that the visit be one of bridge building. Her Majesty addressed the guests at a State banquet in the Irish language in a breath taking moment that marked a new era in Anglo-Irish relations.

On behalf of RCSI, I offer my deepest sympathies to the people of the United Kingdom and all those who mourn her loss at this sad time.