Taoiseach's visit to Great White North represents 'a complete reset' of relations with Canada

Micheál Martin said that he had invited prime minister Mark Carney to visit Ireland officially, an invite which had been accepted, and the pair had agreed a scholarship in the name of General John de Chastelain

Canadian prime minister Mark Carney and Taoiseach Micheál Martin during his visit to Ottawa. Canada take part in the Women's Rugby World Cup final against England on Saturday. Picture: Colleen Anne/Government Information Service

It was the first rain in over a week, Ottawa locals said.

The Canadian capital has, by all accounts, been enjoying a beautiful stretch of weather, which made Thursday's early morning downpour perfect fodder for those who claimed the city had arranged the rain to make Micheál Martin feel at home.