THE GOVERNMENT HAS confirmed this evening that United States President Barack Obama and his wife Michelle will attend a “public celebration” at College Green in central Dublin next Monday afternoon.

The free-to-enter event will take place after the First Couple travel to the President’s ancestral home of Moneygall in Co Offaly, and after a reception at Áras an Úachtaráin with his Irish counterpart, Mary McAleese.

The Obamas will also meet Taoiseach Enda Kenny at Farmleigh in advance of the flying trip to Offaly. Kenny is also set to be present at the public event.

The public event will also include entertainment from “many well known Irish artists”, details of which the government is to announce in the coming days.

Though no acts have yet been confirmed, earlier Jedward tweeted to voice their pleasure at an apparent impending meeting with President Obama – apparently confirming earlier reports that the Eurovision twins were to entertain the President.

Public entry to the area will begin at 2pm, with members of the public asked to enter at security gates at the junction of Dame Street and Parliament Street, and to allow plenty of time to enter. Tickets will not be required.

Cameras and mobile phones will be permitted, but signage, banners, food and beverages will not be permitted.

Earlier, the Irish branch of Democrats Abroad announced plans for an event featuring a panel of international guest experts discussing the major influences on the US commander-in-chief’s political outlook.

The Sunday afternoon event at Dublin’s Central Hotel will also feature the premiere on a documentary film discussing the President’s familial links to Ireland.

Earlier: Obama to hold an outdoor rally at College Green >