University of Limerick students share their thoughts on the Taoiseach’s visit to the White House
As the Taoiseach commences his five-day trip to the States, for his highly anticipated sit-down with Donald Trump at the White House, Limerick Voice reporter Mercedes Magori asked students at the University of Limerick how they feel about the much-anticipated visit.
“I think it is really ironic the fact that come out as Irish people and a government that say we stand with international struggle, but then we’re going to shake hands with the President. We’re going to shake hands with imperialism,” said one UL student.
Another student’s message to the Taoiseach echoed this frustration: “You’re meant to represent the voice of the people, and I don’t think the people here would want that. I don’t think it is very representative of what we stand for as a nation.”
“It’s fifty-fifty which way it goes” added another concerned student, when asked his thoughts on how he expects the event to unfold.
However, business student Sam O’Hara believes that Micheál Martin “should go over because we do not want any hassle with the USA… they’re terrifying and it’s a bad idea to get into any problems with them”.
Taoiseach Micheál Martin’s meeting today is to focus on the political, economic and Irish community engagement, looking at how to progress the strong Irish American ties that are held between the two countries. The Taoiseach will also be expected to raise concerns in the Whitehouse on Wednesday in relation to Ireland’s stance within the Israel-Palestine conflict and its solidarity with Ukraine.