Minister Leo Varadkar has said that Irish politicians will have no choice but to meet with Donald Trump if he gets elected as US President.
Taoiseach Enda Kenny has called some of Trump's campaign remarks 'dangerous and racist' - while Minister Varadkar said the presumptive Republican nominee's comments on the Orlando shooting were "crass and tasteless".
However the Social Protection Minister said they have to deal with world leaders who have done worse, citing the Government's continuing interactions with Egyptian officials over Ibrahim Halawa's imprisonment.
Minister Varadkar said they may have no choice but to welcome Trump to Ireland in the future.
.@campaignforleo says if @realDonaldTrump gets elected US President, politicians will have no choice but to meet him pic.twitter.com/Bli5yS07h3
— Sean Defoe (@SeanDefoe) June 13, 2016
Meanwhile, Mr Trump has been criticised for his remarks following the mass shooting in Orlando.
On Twitter yesterday, Mr Trump said: "Appreciate the congrats for being right on radical Islamic terrorism, I don't want congrats, I want toughness & vigilance. We must be smart!"
He also called for the 'immediate' resignation of Barack Obama if he did not mention 'radical Islamic terrorism'. In an interview on US television this morning, Mr Trump observed: "Look - we're led by a man that either is not tough, not smart, or he's got something else in mind.
"There's something going on," he added.
His initial remarks were heavily criticised by a number of commentators, celebrities and politicians, including Republicans such as Meghan McCain.
.@realDonaldTrump You're congratulating yourself because 50 people are dead this morning in a horrific tragedy?
— Meghan McCain (@MeghanMcCain) June 12, 2016
This narcissistic man baby can't help but try to make a national tragedy about how many congratulations he's due. https://t.co/gTcIGIjRqT
— Rob Flaherty (@Rob_Flaherty) June 12, 2016
Once again, Donald, you have shown why you cannot lead us. 50 people are dead, and you bask in congratulations. https://t.co/pUN7ceAff7
— George Takei (@GeorgeTakei) June 12, 2016
