Successful US businesses to be showcased at Obama event

GOOGLE, Facebook, Microsoft, Intel and Citibank are some of the US firms being courted for a showcase to mark the visit of US President Barack Obama next month.

The Government hopes to arrange a one-day conference in Dublin involving leading US companies in Ireland and discussions on further investment in Ireland to coincide with Mr Obama’s visit. It is hoped Mr Obama will make a brief appearance.

Behind the scenes negotiations are ongoing over Mr Obama’s itinerary and visit, which is being planned for either Sunday, May 22 or Monday, May 23. The only definite timeframe planned is a state visit by Mr Obama to Britain which begins in London at 12pm on May 24.