    [Public Papers of the Presidents of the United States: George W. Bush (2003, Book I)]
    [March 13, 2003]
    [Pages 262-263]
    [From the U.S. Government Publishing Office www.gpo.gov]

    Remarks at a Saint Patrick's Day Shamrock Presentation Ceremony With
    Prime Minister Bertie Ahern of Ireland
    March 13, 2003

        Thank you very much, Taoiseach, and welcome back to the White House.
    Laura and I are honored you came and really glad
    you're here.
        On behalf of the American people, I thank you for the bowl of
    shamrocks and the good fortune they promise. This annual gift symbolizes
    the deep and enduring friendship between our two countries. The strong
    ties between Ireland and the United States reach back centuries.
        These strong ties have been affirmed at critical moments in our
    country's history. It is said that during the Revolutionary War, an
    Irish American woman, Lydia Darragh, provided valuable intelligence to
    George Washington's troops, helping prevent a planned British offensive.
    During the Civil War, the famed Irish Brigade fought valiantly on the
    Union side in terrible battles, some not far from where we stand.
        And throughout America's history, we have benefited from the
    industry and the talents and the ideals of millions of Ireland's sons
    and daughters. Today, our two countries share a deep commitment to
    building a world of peace and security and prosperity and freedom. We've
    stood together in Afghanistan, in Kosovo, in Bosnia, and beyond, to stop
    aggression and to alleviate suffering. Ireland is a valued member of the
    coalition against global terror. And we thank you, sir.
        The American people appreciate Ireland's work on U.N. Security
    Council to help secure passage of the Resolution 1441. That resolution
    demanded that Iraq disarm itself of all weapons of mass destruction. We
    appreciate Ireland's support for ensuring that the just demands of the
    world are enforced. The responsibilities of freedom are not always easy
    to bear, but Ireland and America are joined by a common commitment to
    freedom's defense against tyranny and terror.
        Our two countries also stand together in another cause, working to
    achieve lasting peace in Northern Ireland. Recent years have seen
    historic progress thanks to the tireless efforts of Prime Minister Ahern
    and Blair and many other people who long for
    peace. Now all parties can and must build on this progress so that the
    people of Northern Ireland can replace old resentments with new
    cooperation and new hope. America has long supported this vital work,
    and today that support endures and continues. We will help where we can.
        Saint Patrick's Day reminds us of the close ties of family and
    friendship between our countries, but everyday--every day of the year,
    America is proud to call Ireland a friend.

    [[Page 263]]

        Taoiseach, may good fortune be yours, may your joys never end, may
    good luck be with you wherever you go, and your blessings outnumber the
    shamrocks that grow. Welcome.

    Note: The President spoke at 9:38 a.m. in the Roosevelt Room at the
    White House. In his remarks, he referred to Prime Minister Bertie Ahern
    of Ireland, who presented the shamrocks; and Prime Minister Tony Blair
    of the United Kingdom.