‘American Presidents Trail’ would highlight our close relationship with the US – Timmins

A new road map of key locations that reflect the relationship between US presidents and Ireland will encourage more tourism, a Fine Gael TD has said.

Edward Timmins, Fine Gael TD for Wicklow, who recently called for an ‘American Presidents Trail’ in Ireland during a speech in Dáil Éireann, has today announced the production of a US Presidents ‘Road Map’ which outlines some key locations of the trail from Antrim to Offaly and from Wexford to Mayo.

Speaking ahead of St Patrick’s Day, as several Ministers visit the United States to encourage investment here, Deputy Edward Timmins said, “I am pleased to announce that I am currently in the process of developing a road map for the potential ‘American Presidents Trail’.

“I have pinpointed several key counties to consider along with a suggested route but ultimately this map would benefit all counties.

“The EPIC, Irish Emigration Museum website shows that 23 US Presidents boast Irish heritage. A future ‘Presidents Trail’ along with a cultural centre dedicated to the Irish contribution to the US from Presidents to politics would both enhance relations between the two countries and boost tourism.

“I am currently writing to key stakeholders who may wish to share their thoughts on my proposal, and I welcome ideas from all sectors. Already several groups interested in the project have also written to me in recent weeks since hearing about the proposal.

“US Presidents have long been proud of their connection with Ireland.  President John F Kennedy told his closest aides, that his trip to Ireland were the best four days of his entire life and President Obama told Irish people during his address in Dublin that ‘never has a nation so small inspired so much in another’.

“Never has it been so important to highlight the close relationship we have with the United States, and I believe this trail would promote our close ties.

“I strongly believe my proposal for an ‘American Presidents Trail’ could be a hugely positive North-South project. This could be a massive attraction for US visitors, especially those with Irish links and could be comparable to the Wild Atlantic Way.

“It is my hope to share the map on my social media channels in the near future”, concluded Deputy Timmins.