merrion street

Taoiseach Enda Kenny today began his St. Patrick’s Day itinerary with an address to a breakfast hosted by Vice-President Biden.

The Taoiseach said it was an honour to attend and paid tribute to the late Senator Ted Kennedy. 

All of us present here have traced the journeys from our small island to this great country, which has offered to so many a new life of opportunity.

In Ireland today, we are now plotting a new course of our own and shaping a new destiny. The waters before us may be rough, but we have begun our course and our destination is clear

You know that we are very proud of our immigrants who helped to shape this nation in so many and different ways.

You should know also, as we celebrate our National Day, of the immense pride we take in you, Mr Vice President, and the high office which you have achieved.

Down through the generations, Irish leaders drew enormous inspiration and support from the United States, and from the ideals of your founding fathers. 

The peace that is enjoyed on the island of Ireland today is due in great measure to the leadership of successive American leaders, and we are grateful for the constant interest which you have taken, regardless of the other obligations which you carry over decades of service.  

I know that there are many here this morning in positions of leadership, in many spheres of life in Washington and beyond.

I know also that you are united by one compelling emotion on this day – your connection with Ireland and the loyalty and affection which have for our country.

It is hard to overstate how engaging that story is, as we reflect on the courage and perseverance of those who went before us, of their dedication and their sheer hard work. 

It not only helped to build a great nation, but it created a brighter future for the generations that came after them.

Before the Taoiseach finished by inviting Vice-President Biden for a game of golf in Co. Mayo, Mr. Kenny commented on the Irish economy…

And I come here with one clear message: Ireland will recover, renew and rebuild under new leadership at home.

We are open for business.

We look forward to working in the closest economic partnership with you and, as committed Europeans, to playing our full part in the transatlantic relationship that is so vital to us all.

I assure you also, that as part of a wider partnership on global issues, we remain committed to fighting hunger and to helping the most vulnerable in Africa and elsewhere, to defending human rights and to playing our full role in the United Nations at these challenging times.

I feel confident that, with the support of the United States we can meet those challenges, sure in the knowledge that we have so many good friends - by our side, and on our side.

The Taoiseach’s St. Patricks Day itinerary continues this afternoon with a lunch hosted by Speaker of the House Boehner.