US president to pay tribute to McAleese

IN one of his first acts on Irish soil next Monday, US president Barack Obama will pay tribute to President Mary McAleese for her “extraordinary legacy” to the Irish people.

White House officials confirmed yesterday that President McAleese will be singled out for her bridge-building work in Ireland and in Britain.

“The first event will be a meeting between the [US] president and the first lady with President McAleese and her husband as well, an important opportunity to discuss both bilateral issues with President McAleese and also to honour her extraordinary legacy of serving the people of Ireland and advancing peace in Northern Ireland as well,” a White House Official said.