U.S. President Donald Trump announced the abolition of tariffs on Irish whiskey on Sunday during a visit to Ireland, lifting a trade barrier that had penalised the sector under broader duties imposed on the European Union.
Tariff exemption and political comments
Irish whiskey previously faced a 15 percent tariff applied to European Union goods under the Trump administration. The announcement came as Trump completed a two-day itinerary that included talks with Irish Prime Minister Micheal Martin in Dublin and an appearance at the Irish Open tournament at his golf club in Doonbeg, County Clare.
Alongside the trade relief, Trump voiced support for a united Ireland during his stop in County Clare, remarking that the unification of Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland would be one of the most natural things. British Prime Minister Andy Burnham had previously stated there would be no referendum on Irish unity unless a majority in Northern Ireland was likely to support it. Addressing that position, Trump said everyone says that, and then things happen anyway.
Demonstrations across the visit
The presidential trip drew street demonstrations in both the capital and County Clare. Ten thousand protesters demonstrated against Trump in Dublin on Saturday, according to authorities.
Protests continued on Sunday as 100 demonstrators arrived by bus in Doonbeg near the golf venue. Security forces intervened during the weekend events. Three women were arrested by the Garda on Saturday evening after trespassing onto the Doonbeg golf course.
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Source: U.S
