Obama calls on both political parties to remember how Ronald Reagan and Tip O'Neill worked together

President calls on parties to take example from 'men of Irish stock, quick wit and…fighting spirt'

He continued "today is a day for tens of millions of Americans of Irish descent to celebrate the tremendous influence that one small island with a big-hearted people has had on our country."

Having just announced that intends to visit Ireland this May Obama confirmed to the crowd that he had in fact traced his roots to Ireland. He said "Two years into my presidency, some are still bent on peddling rumors about my origins.  So today I want to put all those rumors to rest.  It is true my great-great-great-grandfather really was from Ireland…  It’s true.  Moneygall, to be precise.  I can’t believe I have to keep pointing this out."

Speaking directly to Prime Minister Kenny he said "We are proud to call Ireland a friend on this   St. Patrick’s Day, and on all the days of the calendar -– and we thank the Irish people for all that they’ve done to enrich the United States of America…. And may the friendship between our two countries grow ever greener."

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Nster.com