Dublin – Democratic Leader Nancy Pelosi is leading a Congressional delegation to Ireland to discuss economic recovery, security cooperation, and renewable energy.  Last night, Leader Pelosi and the delegation met with Tánaiste Eamon Gilmore, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade.

The delegation will also be meeting with other leaders of the public and private sector while In Ireland, including Taoiseach (Prime Minister) Enda Kenny, Ceann Comhairle (Speaker) Sean Barrett and Members of the Irish Parliament, the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources Patrick Rabbitte, and the American Chamber of Commerce Ireland.

“Our delegation looks forward to continued discussion on the progress of Ireland’s growth and austerity measures, the upcoming referendum on the crucial European Union’s financial treaty, and ongoing security cooperation between the United States and Ireland, including the important use of Shannon Airport by tens of thousands of Americans in uniform,” Leader Pelosi said.

“Ireland is an international leader in renewable energy, and we will hear more on their success creating thousands of jobs through green technology,” continued Leader Pelosi.  “We are seeing the potential of large numbers of jobs in private sector green technology.”

Tonight, Leader Pelosi will be presented with the Gold Medal of Honorary Patronage Award by the University Philosophical Society (The Phil) of Trinity College, Dublin.  The Phil, the world’s oldest debating society, will bestow the award on Leader Pelosi at the inaugural meeting of their 327th session for her “excellence in public life and outstanding contribution to politics.”

“It is a special privilege to be installed Honorary Patron of Trinity College, Dublin’s University Philosophical Society, the world’s oldest debating society, while commemorating my 25th year in Congress,” said Leader Pelosi.  “I am honored and humbled to receive this distinction in such a historic setting for dialogue and debate.”

University Philosophical Society President Eoin O’Liatháin said, “We’re delighted to welcome such a distinguished guest to Trinity. The Phil has recorded the presence of many notable speakers throughout our history and it’s great to continue in that vein. Leader Pelosi has contributed greatly to the world of politics and will be a truly special guest.”

In addition to Democratic Leader Pelosi, the Members of the delegation are:

·         Congressman George Miller (D-CA)

·         Congressman Ed Markey (D-MA)

·         Congressman Nick Rahall (D-WV)

·         Congressman Richard Neal (D-MA)        

·         Congresswoman Carolyn Maloney (D-NY)

·         Congressman Mike Doyle (D-PA)

·         Congressman Keith Ellison (D-MN)