Ruth Coppinger (Dublin West, Solidarity) | Oireachtas source

Last week, the Taoiseach indicated he would not withdraw his invitation to President Trump because it would cause a diplomatic incident, which is not something President Trump worries about in his daily actions. However, in the face of evil, diplomatic incidents are sometimes necessary. Last Saturday, the Taoiseach took part in the pride parade, as did I. The focus of the pride events in the US this year was completely on Donald Trump. I note the Taoiseach went further than not withdrawing the invitation to President Trump and spoke of his enthusiasm for visiting the White House on St. Patrick's Day, a tradition he is aware was debated in the House in regard to his predecessor. The proposed visit should be debated before the Taoiseach undertakes it and for him to say he would do that was planning too far ahead. This is not business as usual. The Trump regime is homophobic, sexist and racist. It is not business as usual and the Taoiseach should not do all the traditional things that have always been done. People who are in fear of Trump's policies would appreciate a gesture of solidarity from any head of state. LGBTQ people in America are currently in fear of the loss of support from the state for their marriages and employment rights and that schools will not recognise their children or allow their children to change their names. Women are in fear that President Trump will row back laws that were won over many years. The Taoiseach should not commit to visiting the White House. What will he raise with President Trump in his phone call later today?

See this speech in context