[Weekly Compilation of Presidential Documents Volume 37, Number 11 (Monday, March 19, 2001)]
[Pages 453-454]
[Online from the Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]

<R04>
Remarks at a Saint Patrick's Day Reception

March 16, 2001

    Thank you very much. It sounds like we invited some rowdy Irish-
Americans.

[[Page 454]]

[Laughter] Thank you all for coming. Taoiseach, thank you very much, 
sir. Secretary of State of Northern Ireland, Dr. Reid; First Minister 
Trimble; Deputy First Minister Mallon--thank you all for being here.
    I want to thank the Ambassadors who are here. I want to thank the 
other leaders from Northern Ireland who are here. It's most gracious of 
you to take your time to come and celebrate Saint Patrick's Day with us. 
Mr. Speaker, it's good to see you again, sir, as well.
    The Taoiseach and I just had an excellent meeting. We spent a good 
hour of frank dialog. He gave me Dublin's perspective on the peace 
process in Northern Ireland, just as Prime Minister Blair gave me 
London's perspective when we met last month. An Irish proverb tell us 
that a friend's eye is a good mirror. And I can tell you that what is 
striking about my meetings with both Prime Ministers is how similar 
their perspectives are, how optimistic they are, and how determined they 
are.
    It is clear that all sides want the Good Friday agreement to 
succeed. It is also clear that all sides are seeking to overcome very 
difficult internal obstacles and to keep up forward momentum. The 
agreement negotiated by both Prime Ministers in Belfast last week is a 
reflection of a common commitment. As always, we deeply appreciate the 
efforts.
    And again, I want to pledge what I said yesterday: The United States 
stands ready to help. It is in our national interest that there be a 
lasting peace, a real, lasting peace in Northern Ireland.
    I also want to say how much I appreciate the contributions that 
Irish-Americans have made to the cause of peace. Many of you are right 
here in this room, and our Nation thanks you. By supporting those 
committed to a peaceful approach, you're truly giving something back to 
your native land.
    Today is also about celebrating what Irish-Americans have given to 
their adopted land. The White House itself was designed by an Irish-
American. This fact about America's home is symbolic of the 
contributions made by millions of Irish of both Catholic and Protestant 
persuasion.
    Your industry and talent and imagination have enriched our commerce 
and enriched our culture. The strong record of public service has 
fortified our democracy, and the strong ties to family and faith and 
community have strengthened our Nation's character. In short, the Irish 
are a big reason why we'll always be proud to call ourselves a nation of 
immigrants.
    Happy Saint Patrick's Day.
    And now, would you join us, please, for some refreshments in the 
State Room.
    Welcome to the White House.

Note: The President spoke at 11:38 a.m. in the East Room at the White 
House. In his remarks, he referred to United Kingdom Secretary of State 
for Northern Ireland John Reid; and First Minister David Trimble and 
Deputy First Minister Seamus Mallon, Northern Ireland Executive.