It seems the influence of America’s new president is reaching far and wide, working its way even into the chambers of Westmeath County Council this week.
The minds of councillors at Monday’s council meeting were firmly on international matters, when they began proceedings with a proposal from Cathaoirleach Joe Whelan to send a formal letter of congratulations to new US president Barack Obama.
Inspired by the prevalence of hope in President Obama’s discourse and campaign, Cllr Whelan emphasised that events in the US had the potential to influence events closer to home.
“The one word associated with Barack Obama is ‘hope’, and this is something we all need to take on board. I feel it would be appropriate to send our congratulations to him as the hope of the United States reflects on Ireland,” said Cllr Whelan.
He added that he felt it was significant that one of the first statements of Obama’s presidency was that the US will not torture, a move that represented a significant shift in foreign policy. “We extend to him our best wishes and acknowledge the substantial movement in thinking the American people have achieved.
“We acknowledge also his roots in our neighbouring county of Offaly,” added Cllr Whelan.
