Cork being considered for 2014 royal visit
Diplomatic sources have told the Irish Examiner that “tentative” arrangements for such a visit were being made before she became pregnant, and the royal couple are now likely to come in the first part of 2014.
William’s role as a search and rescue helicopter pilot in the Irish Sea would be central to the visit.
“The fact that Prince William is based in Anglesey gives a good hook for the visit,” said the diplomatic source.
“There is a lot of co-operation between Britain and Ireland in that area. Very tentative steps were taken before the duchess of Cambridge became pregnant, but obviously because of the baby that had to be put on hold.”
Foreign Minister Eamon Gilmore signalled the move in the Dáil, saying it was a “priority” to deepen ties with Britain via events such as a visit by the duke and duchess of Cambridge, adding they would be “very welcome” in the Republic.
A formal invitation would be issued through the Irish embassy in London.
It remains to be decided if the duke and duchess would bring their baby, due in July, though William’s own parents took him on a tour of Australia as a baby.
Cork is believed to be one of the locations being considered for the proposed visit as the joyful reception given to Britain’s Queen Elizabeth in the city is seen to have “transformed the global image” of her 2011 visit to the Republic, which saw massive security and an absence of crowds during her stay in Dublin.
Mr Gilmore indicated the success of that visit opened the door for Kate.
“Deepening relations between Britain and Ireland, including through high-level visits, is a priority for this Government,” he said in a parliamentary reply to Kerry South TD Brendan Griffin.
“The duke and duchess of Cambridge would be very welcome to visit Ireland in that context.
“The visit of Queen Elizabeth II in 2011 symbolised the modern and friendly relationship of equals which exists between our two countries.”
