Irish Americans for Obama Biden

East Wing, White House PRESIDENT OBAMA: Welcome to St. Patrick’s Day at the White House, on a day when springtime is in the air –- and this is -- even though the Taoiseach hasn’t even shared his shamrocks yet, but we can feel spring coming. Before I say anything else let me just say that I could not have a better partner in a difficult job than the Vice President of the United States, Joe Biden; he does a great job each and every day. (Applause.) And I couldn't have a better partner in life than the First Lady of the United States, Michelle Obama. (Applause.) Welcome back, Mr. Prime Minister, First Lady. We are thrilled to have you. The Irish and Irish-Americans are out in force tonight. I believe, if I'm not mistaken that Supreme Court Justice Anthony Kennedy is here. (Applause.) A couple of my Cabinet Secretaries are here, as well –- Secretary of Health and Human Services Kathleen Sebelius, and Secretary of Homeland Security Janet Napolitano. (Applause.) I would love to ackn...

From long before American independence to today, countless individuals have reached our shores, bringing vibrant cultures and diverse roots, and immeasurably enriching our Nation. This month, we honor the contributions made by the tens of millions of Americans who trace their heritage to the Emerald Isle. Irish Americans fought for our independence, and their signatures adorn our founding documents. When famine ravaged Ireland in the 1840s and 1850s, many Irish men and women sought a new beginning in the United States. Though they faced poverty and discrimination, these immigrants transformed our cities, served in our Armed Forces, and settled the frontiers of our young Nation. Their children, and succeeding generations of Irish Americans, have preserved their culture's values while becoming leaders in every facet of American life. During this year's Irish-American Heritage Month, we also celebrate an extraordinary Irishman: Senator Edward M. Kennedy. Throughout his career in p...

February 5, 2010 Well, today is a very positive day for Northern Ireland. Northern Ireland has taken another important step toward a full and lasting peace. Its political leaders have agreed on a roadmap and timeline for the devolution of policing and justice powers, and they’ve taken other productive steps as well. The accord they announced today will help consolidate the hard-won gains of the past decade. Now, this has not been an easy road. There were plenty of bumps along the way. I have been in regular contact with the parties during the past year and, especially since my trip to Belfast in October, and I know that the way forward was far from clear. So I really want to applaud all of the parties for ultimately choosing negotiations over confrontation. In finalizing this deal, Peter Robinson and Martin McGuinness and their teams displayed the kind of leadership that the people of Northern Ireland deserve. I want to recognize the leadership and the patient resolve of Prime Minister...

Boston, MA – President Barack Obama came to Boston on Sunday to endorse Massachusetts Senate candidate Martha Coakley, appearing at a rally at Northeastern University. President Obama also released an ad calling upon voters to get to the polls on Tuesday, January 19 to ensure Coakley's victory. The ad can be viewed on youtube . Campaign Manager Kevin Conroy said, “Massachusetts voters understand the clear difference they face tomorrow. One candidate will stand with Wall Street, and with the failed economic policies of the past. One candidate will stand with middle class families and lead our Commonwealth into a more prosperous future. The energy surrounding President Obama’s visit and the upcoming election reflects the enthusiasm we’ve seen for Martha’s proud record of standing up for Massachusetts, and her strong vision for our country.” Coakley became Massachusetts’ first female Attorney General in January 2007. Throughout her public career, she has a proven record of taking ...

“My mother, Catherine Eugenia “Jean” Finnegan Biden, passed away peacefully today at our home in Wilmington, Delaware, surrounded by her children, her grandchildren, her great-grandchildren and many loved ones. At 92, she was the center of our family and taught all of her children that family is to be treasured, loyalty is paramount and faith will guide you through the tough times. She believed in us, and because of that, we believed in ourselves. Together with my father, her husband of 61 years who passed away in 2002, we learned the dignity of hard work and that you are defined by your sense of honor. Her strength, which was immeasurable, will live on in all of us.” Catherine Eugenia “Jean” Finnegan Biden was born on July 17, 1917, the daughter of the late Ambrose J. Finnegan and the former Geraldine C. Blewitt of Scranton, Pennsylvania. In 1941, she married Joseph Robinette Biden. They were married for 61 years before Mr. Biden passed away in 2002. Mrs. Biden is survived by her elde...

"We meet at an important time in the history of Northern Ireland . In the 11 years since the Good Friday Agreement was signed, you have traveled a long way together on the road to peace . Groups have laid down their weapons. Empty streets are now bustling with activity. And here, in this chamber, men and women who were once sworn enemies work side by side to secure the achievements of recent years, and to deliver a stable, prosperous future for the people you represent. These accomplishments are remarkable, and a credit to you and to all those who have worked for peace, not only the leaders here at Stormont, but also Westminster and Leinster House. But most importantly, to the thousands of ordinary citizens, mothers and fathers, whose determination to end the Troubles made them fervent activists for peace. At this time, we can recognize you have traveled a great distance. But you do not need me to tell you that your journey is not yet over. The promise of the Good Friday Agreemen...

Dan Rooney, US Ambassador to Ireland “It is with sorrow that I report on the passing of Senator Edward M. Kennedy. Senator Kennedy was not only a great American statesman, but a good friend of mine and of Ireland and its people. “Senator Kennedy was a true advocate of health care, especially for children. He was committed to the idea that everyone should have access to health care. “He was a giant in furthering legislative resolutions for people in need, among not only his own constituents, but also among the people of Ireland. “Since his early days in the Senate, Ted Kennedy was active in the Northern Ireland peace process. He introduced resolutions condemning all violence in Northern Ireland, expressing support for the Good Friday agreement in 1998 and the blueprint for lasting peace. “Senator Kennedy was an instrumental supporter of Barack Obama's candidacy for the office of President of the United States. He continued that support after President Obama was elected. “My deepest ...