Galway hopes west is best for Obama

THE FIRST new west of Ireland chapel of the US Democratic Party believes there is “every chance” that US president Barack Obama…

THE FIRST new west of Ireland chapel of the US Democratic Party believes there is “every chance” that US president Barack Obama could visits Galway before the next presidential election.

Boston attorney and NUI Galway law lecturer Larry Donnelly, who has spearheaded formation of the Democrats Abroad branch in the west, says that some intense lobbying has been taking place in relation to the itinerary for a visit.

Chicago mayor Richard M Daley, son of the late legendary Democratic mayor Richard J Daley, has a “great fondness for Galway”, which was visited by John F Kennedy, he says.

Mr Daley has been a “prime mover” in trying to ensure that such a visit takes place, Mr Donnelly, nephew of former congressman Brian Donnelly, points out. He has been supported by Chicago-based Galway businessman Billy Lawless, and both have stressed the twinning connection between the two cities on either side of the Atlantic.

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If Mr Obama does visit, he already has Moneygall, Co Offaly, on his “must visit” list, due to his maternal links with Protestant shoemaker Joseph Kearney. Dublin also has a strong claim, as further research by Trinity College Dublin found that his sixth great-grand-uncle was a prominent wigmaker in the 1700s.

Democrats Abroad Ireland has been active in Ireland for some years, but hopes to encourage voter registration among holders of US passports west of the Shannon. Congressional mid-term elections are due to be held later this year.