IRISH POLITICIANS have sent congratulations and good wishes to US president Barack Obama following his inauguration yesterday.
Taoiseach Brian Cowen said the event was a cause for joy and celebration in Washington, the United States and across the world. Mr Cowen said the occasion marked a new chapter in history and a new beginning for the US.
“His inaugural address offered inspiration and hope to us all. As we face the great challenges that confront us, his leadership will be central to global economic recovery and to the advancement of peace and justice,” he said.
Mr Cowen said he wanted to offer Mr Obama warmest congratulations, best wishes and support on behalf of the people of Ireland.
Fine Gael leader Enda Kenny said yesterday’s inauguration was a historical event which offered hope to the world. “[Mr] Obama has already shown himself to be a charismatic leader with the drive and vision necessary to bring about real change,” he said.
Mr Kenny said the hope that Mr Obama’s election had produced would be felt far beyond US borders. “The president’s inauguration address made it clear that he intends to re-engage with the global community. In a time of economic turmoil, where peace is threatened throughout the world, President Obama’s words offer hope and his commitment is very welcome.”
The US president faced “colossal challenges”, Mr Kenny said, “but I am certain that he will be able to meet every problem that faces him and I offer him my warmest congratulations”.
Labour Party leader Eamon Gilmore described yesterday as a day of hope for people all over the world. “During the extended presidential campaign and since his election, Barack Obama has shown himself to be a leader with a clear political vision and an ability to mobilise and inspire a whole new corps of voters and political workers,” he said.
“I welcome in particular his commitment to a multilateral approach to world issues and I hope that this will result in a fundamental change from the position adopted by the Bush administration, particularly on the war in Iraq, climate change and the battle against world poverty.
“Barack Obama has created a huge level of expectation. He faces immense problems at home and abroad. I hope that he can now meet those expectations, and I wish him every success in his period in the White House.”
Green Party leader John Gormley said: “It is the ‘Green New Deal’, embraced so confidently by Barack Obama that offers our people and the people of the United States renewed hope.”
Sinn Féin president Gerry Adams said the coming into office of the Obama administration will present many positive new opportunities and challenges.
“[Mr] Obama has already committed to continuing US support for the Irish peace process,” he said.
