…By Henry George for TDPel Media.
During a Democratic National Committee Reception in New York, President Joe Biden made remarks about his recent trip to Ireland, sparking a row.
Biden’s comments revolved around his visit to Northern Ireland to commemorate the 25th anniversary of the Good Friday Agreement and his subsequent trip to his ancestral homeland in Ireland.
This article examines the controversy surrounding Biden’s statements and the reactions they elicited from various individuals and politicians.
Biden’s Concerns Over Brexit Trade Row:
While speaking about his visit to Ireland, Biden expressed his underlying belief that most ethnic communities share similar fundamental values.
He revealed that part of his purpose in going back to Ireland was to ensure that “the Brits didn’t screw around” and that Northern Ireland did not deviate from their commitments amid the Brexit trade row.
The President’s choice of words raised eyebrows, particularly among some Tory MPs who criticized his remarks.
Reactions and Criticisms:
Former Northern Ireland Secretary Shailesh Vara deemed Biden’s language regrettable and accused him of using it to bolster his re-election prospects in the US.
Another ex-shadow Northern Ireland minister, Laurence Robertson, urged Biden to recognize Northern Ireland’s British identity and emphasized the need for respectful language when discussing other countries.
In contrast, Simon Hoare, chairman of the Commons Northern Ireland Committee, saw the comments as indicative of concerns held by world capitals regarding the UK government’s approach to Brexit and international law.
DUP Brexit spokesman Sammy Wilson expressed disbelief and concern over Biden’s remarks, considering him the leader of the free world.
Wilson called for respect if there should be a special relationship between the US and the UK.
However, Chairman Hoare defended Biden’s comments, suggesting that they reflect global worries about the British government’s potential disregard for international law in the context of Brexit.
Biden’s Diplomatic Efforts:
During his short stay in Belfast, Biden met with Rishi Sunak, the UK Chancellor of the Exchequer, to foster a friendship with Unionists in Northern Ireland.
He emphasized the importance of upholding the Irish accords and the Windsor Agreement to maintain peace in the region.
The President then continued his visit in the Republic of Ireland, where he toured Carlingford Castle, met with Irish President Michael D Higgins, and met distant relatives in County Mayo.
He also met with Irish premier Leo Varadkar, who disputed claims that Biden was anti-British.
Biden’s Gaffe and Historical Reference:
During a visit to a pub in County Louth, Biden made an unfortunate slip of the tongue.
While paying tribute to former Irish rugby player Rob Kearney, who had been part of the team that famously defeated New Zealand in 2016, Biden referred to them as having “beat the Black and Tans” before quickly correcting himself.
The Black and Tans were part-time officers recruited to augment the Royal Irish Constabulary during the Troubles, and they gained a notorious reputation for their actions.
Analysis and Commentaries:
Biden’s comments regarding the Brexit trade row have generated mixed reactions from politicians and commentators.
Some criticize his language, suggesting that it lacks respect for the UK and Northern Ireland’s British identity.
However, others argue that his remarks reflect international concerns about the UK government’s commitment to upholding international law.
The gaffe at the pub further adds to the discussion, highlighting the sensitivity of historical references and the need
Biden’s statements have stirred controversy and raised questions about his approach to the Brexit trade row, the UK’s sovereignty, and his diplomatic interactions in Ireland.
The reactions from various individuals and politicians illustrate the divergent perspectives surrounding these issues.