Mary Kenny: Catherine Connolly was one of 14 children - it's no surprise she's a fighter

"Although the president-elect says she learnt equality from growing up in a big family, sometimes favouritism can develop One of the reasons Catherine Connolly is so committed to equality, she has said, is that she was brought up in a family of 14 children. As one of seven sisters and seven brothers, she has stressed, fairness had to be the iron rule of the household."

"This is a revealing glimpse into Ms Connolly's formation, which must have been challenging in other ways, too, since she lost her mother when she was only nine. But being part of a very big family makes her, by definition, an unusual person in today's society and may lend a unique element to her personality. Join the Irish Independent WhatsApp channel Stay up to date with all the latest news"

Catherine Connolly was raised in a family of 14 children. She was one of seven sisters and seven brothers. Fairness had to be the iron rule of the household. She lost her mother when she was nine, adding personal challenge to her upbringing. Being part of a very large family makes her unusual in contemporary society. The large-family background underpins a strong commitment to equality while acknowledging that favouritism can sometimes emerge. That upbringing may contribute distinctive elements to her character and approach in public life.

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