Do Irish Politicians Hate Trump More Than They Value Irish Jobs? Episode 847

US President Donald Trump now appears almost certain to visit Ireland for at least two days in September, with preparations already under way for a major security operation. Trump is expected to arrive around 12 September and attend the Irish Open at his golf resort in Doonbeg, County Clare, where he hopes to watch Rory McIlroy compete. The visit is also expected to include engagements in Dublin and a possible meeting with Taoiseach Micheál Martin, although the trip is not currently being treated as a formal State visit.

The political battle has already begun. Labour MEP Aodhán Ó Ríordáin has declared that Trump is “not welcome” in Dublin and says the red carpet should not be rolled out, while protests are expected from several political and activist groups. However, others argue that personal dislike of Trump should not be allowed to damage Ireland’s relationship with its largest trading and investment partner. American companies support hundreds of thousands of Irish jobs, while Ireland’s economic prosperity remains heavily dependent on foreign investment.

In this episode, Niall speaks to journalist John McGuirk from The Statement about the growing controversy. Should Ireland offer Donald Trump an official State welcome, regardless of political differences? Are Irish politicians entitled to declare that the democratically elected American President is not welcome? Could public hostility towards Trump risk damaging jobs, investment and Ireland’s vital relationship with the United States?

Do you welcome President Trump to Ireland, or should the Government tell him to stay away?