By Justin McCarthy in Washington
US President Barack Obama has praised the success of the Irish in America saying it serves as a reminder that the United States needs to build an immigration system “that works for families, businesses and the economy”.
He made the remarks at a lavish White House reception to mark St Patrick’s Day where the President was presented with a crystal bowl of shamrock by Taoiseach Enda Kenny.
Guests at the event were treated to an Irish themed menu of Strawberry Salad with Irish Goats Cheese, Irish Smoked Salmon and Potato Crisps, Pork belly with Bushmill Glaze, Boxty, and Mini Shepherd’s Pie.
Among the 400 VIP guests were Taoiseach Enda Kenny and his wife Fionnuala, Tanaiste Eamon Gimore, the North’s First and Deputy First Minister Peter Robinson and Martin McGuinness, FAI Chief Executive John Delaney, broadcaster Aine Lawlor, President Obama’s eight cousin Henry Healy, Fianna Fail Senator Mark Daly, and Irish American politicians Martin O’Malley, Pat Leahy, and Richie Neal.
Addressing the guests President Obama said “welcome to St Patrick’s week here in the White House, not just a day, we got a week”.
The President said “looking out on this room its clear just how much America owes to our brothers and sisters across the Atlantic, and how many of us, including myself, wouldn’t be here but for the brave souls who set off across the Atlantic with no earthly idea what awaited them on the other side”.
“Its yet another reason why we need to build an immigration system for the 20th century, one that works for families businesses and for our economy”.
The President said the Irish had contributed a lot to American life; “Ever since the first son or daughter of the emerald Isle set foot on American soil, this day has served as a reminder of how many threads of green are woven into the red, white and blue.”
Taoiseach Enda Kenny expressed the hope that President Obama’s second term in office would bring a second visit to Ireland.
He said he was bringing a message of hope on behalf of the people of Ireland that “confidence is returning to our country and to our people”.
