Setback for Taoiseach’s US trip as event called off due to hurricane

By Cillian Sherlock, PA

A significant part of the Taoiseach’s itinerary in Washington this week has been called off.

Simon Harris is due to travel to the American capital to meet US President Joe Biden in the White House.

The visit is part of a series of events to mark 100 years of diplomatic relations between Ireland and the US.

While Mr Harris will meet Mr Biden in the Oval Office on Wednesday, an accompanying reception for invited guests at the Rose Garden has been “postponed” due to an incoming hurricane.

Hurricane Milton has strengthened to a Category 5 storm as it heads towards a possible landfall in Florida on Wednesday.

A spokesperson for the Taoiseach said: “President Biden and Taoiseach Simon Harris spoke last night [Monday].

“The President asked that they would proceed as planned at the Oval Office on Wednesday but, given the grave threat posed in the United States by Hurricane Milton, they would postpone the reception in the Rose Garden until a later date.

“The Taoiseach will proceed with all other parts of his program in Washington.”

Mr Biden and Mr Harris were originally scheduled to speak at an event to mark the centenary of bilateral diplomatic relations between Ireland and the US.

The event was also billed as an opportunity to “reflect on President Biden’s career-long friendship with Ireland”.

Mr Biden has spoken affectionately about his Irish heritage across his political career.

He was warmly welcomed to Ireland in 2023 for a visit which included retracing some of his ancestral roots in Co Louth and Co Mayo and receiving a standing ovation as he addressed the Irish Parliament in Dublin.

During his visit to Washington DC, the Taoiseach will also undertake a number of other engagements.