Kenny’s historic visit to tribute tower

The Taoiseach has become the first international leader to visit Freedom Tower — the under-construction building on the site of the Twin Towers which came down in the Sept 11 terrorist attacks.

Enda Kenny said the reconstruction was “symbolic of the path Ireland is taking” on its road to economic recovery.

“It is a privilege to be here on St Patrick’s Day, 2013,” he said. “My understanding is that this is the first opportunity for a political leader to come this high.”

Eager to ensure his legacy remains in the building, he signed his name and the date on an iron girder of the 105th floor, as did his wife, Fionnuala, after which a heart was drawn between both names.

Mr Kenny also visited the Irish community in Breezy Point in Queens, New York, where people have been coming to terms with the devastation left by Hurricane Sandy which battered down their seaside homes in October.