Statement by the Press Secretary on the Visit of Irish Prime Minister Enda Kenny

President Obama will welcome Prime Minister (Taoiseach) Enda Kenny of Ireland to the White House on Friday, March 14.  The United States and Ireland share a strong bilateral relationship; deep cultural, historic, and people-to-people bonds; and a shared commitment to advancing peace, security, and prosperity in the world.  In the morning, the Vice President will host the Taoiseach for breakfast at the Naval Observatory, and the President will meet with the Taoiseach in the Oval Office.  Subsequently, the President and the Vice President will attend the traditional St. Patrick’s Day lunch at the U.S. Capitol.  In the early evening, the President and the First Lady will host a reception to celebrate their sixth St. Patrick’s Day at the White House.  During the reception, the President and Kenny will participate in the annual Shamrock ceremony started under President Truman.

Also on March 14, the Vice President will meet with First Minister Peter Robinson and deputy First Minister Martin McGuinness of Northern Ireland at the White House to discuss progress toward building a peaceful and prosperous future for the people of Northern Ireland.