Obama visit looks more likely after talk with the Taoiseach
Brian Cowen invited president-elect Obama to Ireland during the 15-minute telephone conversation in which they discussed the fact that both of them had roots in Co Offaly.
Mr Obama is expected by many to follow in the footsteps of other US presidents with Irish connections by visiting the home of his ancestors in Moneygall. John F Kennedy visited the home of his grandfather in New Ross, Co Wexford, in 1964 and Ronald Reagan came to see his ancestors’ home of Ballyporeen in Co Tipperary in 1984.
Mr Cowen spoke with Mr Obama in what was said to be an “introductory phone call” to congratulate him on his election victory.
The leaders did not go into detail on specific policy issues. However, Mr Cowen updated Mr Obama on developments in the North and ”stressed the importance the Government attaches” to Ireland’s relationship with the US.
Mr Obama is expected to meet Mr Cowen in the White House next Saint Patrick’s Day for the traditional presentation of the bowl of shamrocks.
