By Ben Kerrigan-
U.S Vice-President Mike Pence has pledged to play a constructive role in Brexit talks as he arrived in the Republic of Ireland for an official visit today.
Mr Pence and his wife, Second Lady Karen Pence, are to stay in Doonbeg, County Clare, where US President Donald Trump owns a luxury golf resort and where Mr Pence has family connections.
He is set to meet Irish prime minister Leo Varadkar and Irish President Michael D Higgins in Dublin on Tuesday. Mr Pence was accompanied by his wife Karen Pence after Air Force Two touched down at Shannon Airport in the west of the country on Monday afternoon
The couple were officially welcomed by Ireland’s deputy premier and foreign affairs minister (Tanaiste) Simon Coveney. In relation to his comments on Brexit, he said:
“We will continue to work closely with our partners in Ireland and the United Kingdom to support a Brexit plan that encourages stability and also one which keeps the strong foundation forged by the Good Friday Agreement,” Mr Pence said.
“We understand these are complex issues.
“I will be in the UK meeting with Prime Minister Boris Johnson in just a few days but I think the opportunity to better understand Ireland’s perspective and unique needs, particularly with regard to the Northern border, will make us even better equipped to hopefully play a constructive role that when Brexit occurs, it will occur in a way that reflects stability and addresses the unique relationship between the UK and the Republic of Ireland.”
The vice president will stay in Doonbeg, Co Clare, where US President Donald Trump owns a golf resort, and also where Mr Pence’s family has historic links.
On Tuesday Mr Pence is expected to meet Irish President Michael D Higgins and Taoiseach Leo Varadkar in Dublin.
Mr Pence spoke ahead of his visit about looking forward to celebrating his Irish roots. His mother Nancy Pence Fritsch and sister Ann Pence Poynter are also visiting.
Image: PA