Trump Doubles Down on United Ireland Comments During Irish Open Visit
BBC News – BBC Homepage
Trump’s Comments on a United Ireland
President Donald Trump has reaffirmed his support for a united Ireland during his second day in Ireland, where he is attending the Irish Open at Trump International Golf Links in Doonbeg, County Clare.
On Saturday, Trump expressed his desire for a united Ireland while meeting with Taoiseach (Irish Prime Minister) Micheál Martin in Dublin. On Sunday, he elaborated on his comments, stating, "I’ve always loved the people of Ireland. It just seems to me you have Northern Ireland and Ireland, and it seems that one of the naturals of all time is to put them together."
Trump described his earlier remarks as "a fairly routine comment" and noted that "many people agree".
Security and Protests
The president’s visit has sparked significant protests, with over 10,000 people marching through Dublin on Saturday. Additional protests have occurred in Doonbeg, where a small group of protesters were moved by the Irish police, Gardai.
Three women were arrested for trespassing on the golf links and appeared in court on Saturday evening. Rev. Steven Foster, a Methodist minister from Galway, attended the protest, stating, "As a church leader, it’s important for me to be visible, and the church needs to be visible in this regard."
However, local business owner Martin Kelly praised Trump for the economic benefits and job opportunities brought by the golf course to Doonbeg. "It’s a massive employer here… they’re very decent people to work for, they’re very fair," he said.
