Clare’s Minister of State says it’s time to step back and recognise the importance of maintaining the significant and historical connection between Ireland and the United States.
It comes as the Taoiseach prepares for a bilateral meeting with Donald Trump, where he’ll present the US President with the traditional bowl of shamrock to mark St Patrick’s Day.
The Taoiseach arrived in Washington DC last evening for two days of engagements, which will culminate tomorrow, with the presentation of the traditional bowl of shamrock to the US President at the White House.
Micheál Martin has been facing criticism for going ahead with his meeting with Donald Trump, in light of the ongoing war in the Middle East, amongst other controversial policy issues.
Speaking in Philadelphia yesterday, on the second day of his visit to the United States, he said there’s no strong evidence to suggest Irish airspace is being used for US attacks on Iran, but acknowledged that policing any rule breaches can be difficult.
The Taoiseach also said Shannon is not being used by the US for the war in Iran.
Clare’s Minister of State believes the idea of the Taoiseach not attending the bilateral meeting tomorrow “would be wrong”.
The Tulla-based Minister is one of forty Ministers and other State representatives visiting more than 50 countries for St Patrick’s Day, and as part of his visit to Canada is meeting with Clare and Irish diaspora, as well as businesses there.
Minister Dooley admits there are policy issues the American goverment has made, that the Irish Government might not necessarily agree with.
He’s emphasising, though, that it’s the office held by President Trump that’s being celebrated and differences on issues shouldn’t get in the way of celebrating the significant relationship that exists between Ireland and the US.
Clare’s Sinn Féin TD insists the Taoiseach’s visit to the White House can’t be “all happy-go-lucky shindigs and photo ops.”
Shannon Deputy Donna McGettigan is calling on Micheál Martin to stand up for the Irish people and set out a clear message about commitment to international law and neutrality.
You can listen to the full interview here:
