Donald Trump likely to travel to Doonbeg for Irish Open

US President Donald Trump is likely to visit Ireland next month, with his itinerary including attendance at the Irish Open golf tournament held at his course in Doonbeg, Co Clare. The visit, expected to span at least two days, will also feature events in Dublin.

Sources indicate Trump will fly into Ireland on September 12. This date is strategically chosen to ensure his presence at the annual commemoration of the September 11 terrorist attacks in the United States and to allow him to arrive in Doonbeg for the conclusion of the Irish Open on September 13. The trip is expected to involve a substantial security operation due to the potential for protests.

While a trip to Dublin is planned, potentially including a meeting with Taoiseach Micheál Martin, it is highly improbable that Trump will address the Dáil or Seanad. Members of the Irish parliament are not scheduled to return from their summer recess until September 16. It remains uncertain whether President Catherine Connolly will meet with Trump, as the visit is not a formal state occasion and her schedule could change.

The prospect of Trump's visit coinciding with the Irish Open weekend has been anticipated for months. Both Trump and Taoiseach Martin had discussed the possibility during the Taoiseach's visit to the White House in March. Historically, most US presidents have visited Ireland during their term, with Joe Biden being the most recent in April 2023.