The Finance Minister says he’s glad to see the back of Donald Trump.
Paschal Donohoe also says the Taoiseach will make every effort to attend the White House on St Patrick’s Day, if it’s safe, to meet the new US President Joe Biden.
President Biden has started his term in office by reversing many of Trump’s policies.
The US will rejoin the Paris Climate Accord, and the new administration is also introducing a mask-wearing mandate for federal property during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Minister Donohoe told The Pat Kenny Show he’s glad to see the back of Trump, because it restores values to the White House.
He said: “I believe that while we still have great difficulties and challenges, the arrival of President Biden would change at least the tone of dealing with these great challenges.
“But I think there’s every possibility it could do more than that - it could actually help with the substance of the challenges we are facing.”
Donald Trump pumps his fist as he boards Marine One on the South Lawn of the White House in Washington, D.C., U.S., on Wednesday, Jan. 20, 2021. Photo by Al Drago/Pool/ABACAPRESS.COMMinister Donohoe said the strong history between Ireland and US is always there, not just because President Biden has often spoke of his Irish roots.
He said: “I think it’s already acknowledged to be a very important part of the relationship we have with America, and will look to naturally use that.
“If it’s safe and if public health policy in both countries allows it to happen… I’m sure the Taoiseach will make every effort to travel to America.”
Capitol riots were a 'profound change'
Former Taoisigh Enda Kenny and Leo Varadkar visited Donald Trump in the Oval Office during the former president's term - trips which were criticised at the time by some commentators and opposition parties in Ireland.
Minister Donohoe insisted those visits are not something to regret, however, as it’s important to engage with whoever is elected to the top office in the US.
He observed: “I do have to say during the many years of dealing with different members of President Trump’s administration, we did have very constructive and cordial relations.
“But I think what was such a profound change in all of that were the events we did see on Capitol Hill, where the scenes and behaviour were incited by President Trump.
“We are reminded of the damage that can be done when we see the scenes we did see on Capitol Hill… when republics and countries get into grave difficulties.”
He added that Donald Trump’s exit is ‘as important’ a development as the election of President Biden.
