Pat Breen (Clare, Fine Gael)
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Question 116: To ask the Taoiseach if he will report on his recent visit to the United States; the issues raised with the US President; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12972/10]

Brian Cowen (Laois-Offaly, Fianna Fail)
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I travelled to the United States as part of the traditional St. Patrick's Day celebrations. On St. Patrick's Day in Washington I met with President Obama in the oval office where we discussed the global economic situation, recent developments in Northern Ireland, European and international issues and Ireland-US relations. I also attended the St Patrick's Day lunch on Capitol Hill, hosted by the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Ms Nancy Pelosi. Later that day I attended the White House St. Patrick's Day Reception where I presented President Obama with the traditional bowl of shamrock.

In addition I had meetings with Vice-President Biden and Secretary of State Hillary Clinton. While in Washington I made the keynote address to the Ireland Fund Dinner and had a meeting of US-based members of the Global Irish Network which was established following the Global Irish Forum last year.

I also met with the North's First Minister, Peter Robinson and deputy First Minister Martin McGuinness during my time in Washington. While in Chicago I attended the Irish Fellowship Club of Chicago dinner and had meetings with Irish community representatives, as well as political leaders including Governor Pat Quinn and Mayor Richard M Daley. I attended a range of business and trade promotion events in Chicago, Silicon Valley and Washington DC during the course of my trip.