Trump cancels Ireland visit

Donald Trump has cancelled his planned trip to Ireland. Had it gone ahead, the visit of the US President, who likes to constantly remind us that he has property in Ireland, was certain to be met with mass protests, with the appearance of the 'Baby Trump' blimp among the projected highlights of what would doubtless have been a carnival of anti-Trump action.

Whether the likelihood of widespread action on the streets played a part in his decision to cancel, or not, there is little doubt that his u-turn will be seen as a victory for those who were opposed to the idea of welcoming him to Ireland.

The Government first heard of Trump's visit when the POTUSA himself announced to the Taoiseach, Leo Varadkar, that he would be coming in November. Normally, visits like this would be the subject of discussion between diplomatic representatives, rather than dictatorial pronouncements. However, the Taoiseach had issued an invitation to Donald Trump, when he attended the traditional Irish ceremonies in the White House, on St. Patrick's Day last. The cancellation was first reported this afternoon by Independent.ie, the website of the Irish Independent and associated titles.

Plans had also been developing for a major protest at Doonbeg Golf Course, in Co. Clare, which is owned by the US President. That prospect certainly would not have appealed to the man who currently occupies The White House. How long that will last remains to be seen: Donald Trump's position as US President has come under increasing pressure over the past week, with further insider revelations painting a picture of an administration which is eve=n greater disarray than had previously been imagined.

Donald Trump's decision to change his mind, and to cancel the trip, will likely come as a major relief to the Irish Government, and especially to the Taoiseach. It emerged earlier this year that Leo Varadkar had written to Clare County Council, following representations from Donald Trump, in relation to plans to build a wind-farm adjacent to his Doonbeg golf course.

More as we get it.