US President Barack Obama says he enjoyed his visit to Ireland last year so much that he wants to do it all over again.
He told the Irish Taoiseach, Enda Kenny, that he will be returning sometime after the Presidential Election of November 2012.
Kenny had been meeting with Obama in the Oval Office when the President told him that his visit to Ireland had been magical and that he and his family would be returning.
Obama had previously visited Ireland in May 2011. He went to Moneygall, Co Offaly, where some of his ancestors had come from. While he was there he couldn’t resist a pint of the black stuff in Hayes Bar.
Extraordinary enthusiasm of the Irish people
Speaking after their meeting, in which they also discussed the economy, Kenny said: “He had made it clear the enthusiasm and exuberance of Irish people on the occasion of his visit was quite extraordinary.
“President Obama and Michelle, and children will be more than welcome to come at any time.”
The President was keen to take the Taoiseach up on his offer as he did not get to spend enough time in Ireland during his previous stay. He said: “I want to thank the Taoiseach and all the people of Ireland for the extraordinary hospitality shown.
‘It was a magical day. It was too short, so I provided assurances that we will be returning.”
Hopefully this time around he will be able to make a night of it and visit both Ollie Hayes pub and Joe Hayes pub, which are the only two pubs in Moneygall.
Last year the latter missed out on the President’s company.
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