The Daily Star Ireland
Taoiseach Micheál Martin has expressed that US President Donald Trump is always welcome in Ireland, ahead of their scheduled meeting in the White House as part of Ireland’s traditional St. Patrick’s Day engagements.
Speaking from Texas, where he is currently on an official visit, Martin emphasized the strong ties between Ireland and the United States, particularly in celebrating the Irish-American diaspora. He noted that the President had recognized Irish Heritage Month in a positive way, reinforcing the deep historical and economic connections between the two nations.
While in Washington, Martin will highlight the “two-way street” of investment between Ireland and the US, particularly at a time when concerns about tariffs, tax policies, and trade imbalances are growing under Trump’s protectionist stance.
Strengthening US-Irish Economic Ties
As part of his US visit, Martin has been focusing on reinforcing the economic partnership between the two countries. Speaking at the South by Southwest (SXSW) Festival in Austin, Texas, he underscored the significance of Ireland as a base for American companies operating in the European single market, while also emphasizing Irish investment in the US.
He pointed out that Ireland is not just a recipient of American business investment, but also a growing economic player in the US market. Many Irish companies are expanding their presence in America, purchasing US goods, and creating jobs.
During his Texas trip, Martin met with Governor Greg Abbott and visited major US tech companies, including Dell and Tricentis. Tricentis announced plans to expand its Cork base, with the addition of 50 new jobs over the coming years.
A Busy Schedule Ahead in Washington
Before heading to Washington, D.C., Martin attended several events, including a St. Patrick’s reception in Austin, hosted by the Irish consulate, and participated in an Enterprise Ireland business event.
Once in Washington, he will engage in discussions with Trump on several key global issues, including the war in Ukraine, Middle East tensions, and the ongoing political situation in Northern Ireland.
As part of the St. Patrick’s Day tradition, Martin will present Trump with the ceremonial shamrock bowl, symbolizing goodwill from Ireland to the US.
Additionally, a delegation of Irish Government ministers will also be visiting the US, including Tánaiste Simon Harris, who will travel to New York and Philadelphia during a critical period in US-European relations.
Meanwhile, in a separate diplomatic engagement, Northern Ireland First Minister Michelle O’Neill and Deputy First Minister Emma Little-Pengelly led a business delegation to North Carolina. However, O’Neill and Sinn Féin members have declined to participate in Washington engagements, citing their stance against the mass displacement of Palestinians from Gaza.
With a packed itinerary, Martin’s visit aims to reinforce Ireland’s economic interests, maintain diplomatic ties, and uphold Ireland’s presence on the global stage during this annual tradition.
