Rooney names as new US ambassador

US President Barack Obama today marked Washington’s St Patrick’s Day celebrations by appointing his ambassador to Ireland.

The announcement was made during a visit by Taoiseach Brian Cowen to the US capital, where the two leaders held talks at the White House for the first time since they both took office.

New appointee Dan Rooney is co-founder of the America Ireland fund and chairman of Super Bowl champions the Pittsburgh Steelers.

Mr Obama, who said the bond between the two countries could not be stronger, said Mr Rooney was an unwavering supporter of Irish peace, culture and education.

“I am honoured and grateful that such a dedicated and accomplished individual has agreed to serve as the representative of the United States to the Irish people,” the President said.

“Dan Rooney is an unwavering supporter of Irish peace, culture, and education, and I have every confidence that he and Secretary (of State Hillary) Clinton will ensure America’s continued close and unique partnership with Ireland in the years ahead.”

Mr Rooney, who succeeds Thomas Foley, is the recent recipient of the American Ireland Fund’s Lifetime Achievement Award.

The announcement was made prior to Mr Cowen presenting the President with a bowl of shamrocks, marking the first St Patrick’s Day in office for both leaders.

Mr Cowen welcomed Mr Rooney’s appointment, adding the new ambassador was a great personal friend for many years.

“And I want to, in the first instance, greatly welcome your appointment of Dan Rooney and we look forward to Dan and Pat coming to Ireland. They will be very welcomed,” Mr Cowen said.

“They are regular visitors, they know Ireland so well. And Dan has been a great personal friend of mine down the years, too, and I really very much welcome his appointment. And I know how great an honor it is for his family.”