Obama’s trip to Ireland now said to be a one day affair

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Barack Obama’s trip to Ireland will last 24 hours and no longer according to Washington sources, despite speculation it might be extended another day.

Despite the best efforts of the Irish government and US Ambassador Dan Rooney it looks like the visit will commence on Monday May 23rd with Obama’s arrival into Dublin Airport. Hopes had been expressed that he would jet in on the Sunday, May 22nd.

He will meet with Irish Prime Minister Enda Kenny and President Mary McAleese as well as members of the Irish government.

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He may also go to Glasnevin Cemetery on his way in from Dublin Airport to visit the grave of Daniel O’Connell, who was deeply influential in the life of Fredrick Douglass, the freed slave and writer who Obama deeply admires.

He is expected to depart for Moneygall via helicopter for the visit to his ancestral home which is expected to be the highlight of his trip.

After Moneygall he is expected to fly back to Dublin and to appear at a special rally in Croke Park where up to 80,000 Irish are expected to greet him.

He will overnight at the residence of US Ambassador Dan Rooney before departing for London for a state visit the following day. It is not known if there will be a program for him on Tuesday morning before he departs.