Advertisement

We need your help now

Support from readers like you keeps The Journal open.

You are visiting us because we have something you value. Independent, unbiased news that tells the truth. Advertising revenue goes some way to support our mission, but this year it has not been enough.

If you've seen value in our reporting, please contribute what you can, so we can continue to produce accurate and meaningful journalism. For everyone who needs it.

few scoops

Trump's sons Eric and Donald Jr popped into a Doonbeg pub and pulled some pints this evening

However, there was no sign of the US President for locals in the Clare town tonight.

President Trump state visit to Ireland - Day One Donald Jr (on the left) with Eric (on the right) between the barman of the Doonbeg local Niall Carson / PA Images Niall Carson / PA Images / PA Images

THEIR FATHER MAY not have made an appearance, but two of Donald Trump’s children made sure to pop into a local pub in Doonbeg this evening as the US President got his two-day visit to Ireland under way.

The small Clare village is home to Trump’s hotel and golf course, and his sons Eric and Donald Jr met locals this evening and also pulled a couple of pints.

President Trump state visit to Ireland - Day One Niall Carson / PA Images Niall Carson / PA Images / PA Images

Speaking to a packed pub, Donald Trump Jr got a cheer when he said: “This is a lot better than New York City.”

The president will stay in the area for the next few nights before returning to the US.

President Trump state visit to Ireland - Day One Donald Jr takes a sup Niall Carson / PA Images Niall Carson / PA Images / PA Images

Trump earlier dismissed suggestions that his visit was no more than an opportunity to visit his golf club in Doonbeg.

He told reporters that he was here because it was important to visit Ireland after he had travelled to the UK.

“I thought this would be the best place [to come],” he says. “I love Ireland. I love Doonbeg.”

President Trump state visit to Ireland - Day One Niall Carson Niall Carson

He also held talks with Taoiseach Leo Varadkar following his arrival to Shannon Airport this afternoon. 

“It’s an honour to be in Ireland with my friend, and he’s doing a great job as prime minister,” he told reporters, referring to Varadkar.

President Trump state visit to Ireland - Day One Niall Carson / PA Images Niall Carson / PA Images / PA Images

A number of small protests took place near Shannon Airport before Trump touched down, and larger protests are expected to take place later this evening.

Trump’s visit followed an official visit to the United Kingdom, where he met outgoing Prime Minister Theresa May, and he told reporters that he would discuss “various things” about Brexit.

Your Voice
Readers Comments
96
This is YOUR comments community. Stay civil, stay constructive, stay on topic. Please familiarise yourself with our comments policy here before taking part.
Leave a Comment
    Submit a report
    Please help us understand how this comment violates our community guidelines.
    Thank you for the feedback
    Your feedback has been sent to our team for review.

    Leave a commentcancel