Ross undecided on how he will ‘express disapproval’ of Trump
ANOTHER Government minister is considering using the visit of Donald Trump to Ireland to air grievances over the US president’s controversial policies.
Independent Alliance
Minister Shane Ross will decide in the coming weeks how to express his dissatisfaction with the Trump administration.
Two of his Cabinet colleagues, Finian McGrath and John Halligan, have said they will take to the streets in protest during the visit.
Mr Ross is reserving his position for now but said he supported the right of his colleagues to protest.
“I will decide in the coming weeks what action I will take to express my disapproval of President Trump’s policies,” Mr Ross told the Irish Independent.
Previously Mr Ross spoke out against the visit of the then Taoiseach, Enda Kenny, to Washington for St Patrick’s Day celebrations.
The visit, which brings with it a significant diplomatic challenge, is set to prove even more difficult for Taoiseach Leo Varadkar due to the planned public protest of two of his Government’s ministers.
It is understood the visit of Mr Trump was raised at yesterday’s Cabinet meeting and Mr McGrath made his views known, but a source insisted the matter was not discussed in any great detail.
The visit is expected to take place on November 12 after Mr Trump visits France for the Armistice commemorations. He is expected to pay a courtesy visit to the Áras, where he will meet the next president of Ireland.
Three of the hopefuls looking to get on the presidential election ballot have said they would welcome Mr Trump to the Áras.
Businessman Gavin Duffy said he would act on the direction of the Department of the Taoiseach and he would perform his duties if directed to receive Mr Trump.
Meanwhile, Senator Joan Freeman said: “Whatever personal conviction we might have shouldn’t actually interfere with the fact that he, like every other head of state, should be made welcome.”
The Dubliner said Mr Trump may be “more lenient” towards her due to her setting up of a charity in New York, Solace House.
“I set up a charity in New York, the second one is going to open next Monday so I’ve given a gift to America, so I think President Trump might be a little bit more lenient towards me,” she said.
The third ‘dragon’ to enter the race, Peter Casey, said statements about protesting the visit were “irresponsible and short-sighted”.