President of Ireland to Make State Visit to Canada

"Canada enjoys close ties with Ireland, with deep historical roots and many personal and family links," said the Prime Minister. "And our trade and investment relations - which have also flourished - stand to grow even stronger as Ireland continues down the path of peace. President McAleese's visit provides an excellent opportunity to renew and reinforce all aspects of our relationship."

The President's first visit to Canada, will begin in Prince Edward Island on October 2. She will travel to Ottawa on October 4, where she will meet with Governor General Roméo LeBlanc, the Prime Minister and the Speakers of the House of Commons and the Senate.

The President's itinerary will take her to Toronto on October 6, Montreal on October 7, Sydney on October 8, Halifax on October 9, Saint John on October 10, Quebec City on October 11, and St. John's on October 13. Throughout her state visit, President McAleese will meet with senior federal and provincial officials, as well as with Irish community and business groups. She will also attend cultural, academic and business events, and visit historical and commemorative sites in the various cities and surrounding communities she will be visiting.

The Irish delegation will include the Minister for Foreign Affairs, Mr. David Andrews, the Secretary General to the President, Mr. Brian McCarthy, the Special Advisor to the President, Ms. Eileen Gleeson and the Assistant Secretary to the President, Mr. Peter Ryan. President McAleese will also be accompanied by her husband, Mr. Martin McAleese. The Irish Minister for Foreign Affairs will meet with his Canadian counterpart, Foreign Affairs Minister Lloyd Axworthy, during the Ottawa portion of the visit.

PMO Press Office: (613) 957-5555


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