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 Tuesday, March 19.  The United States and Ireland share a strong bilateral partnership, enduring people-to-people ties, and a commitment to advancing peace, security and prosperity in the world.  In the morning, the President will meet with the Taoiseach in the Oval Office, and subsequently he will attend the traditional St. Patrick’s Day lunch at the U.S. Capitol.  In the evening, the President and the First Lady will host a reception to celebrate their fifth 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.

The President will also greet First Minister Peter Robinson and Deputy First Minister Martin McGuinness of Northern Ireland at the White House on March 19 to discuss their progress toward meeting their shared commitment to a peaceful and prosperous future for the people of Northern Ireland.