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Trump’s Planned Ireland Visit Highlights Golf Business and Development Dispute

8/25/2026, 6:21:31 AM

Core Event: Scheduled September Visit to Doonbeg for Irish Open

  • President Donald Trump will be in Ireland on September 12-13, attending the final two days of the Irish Open at his Trump International Golf Links & Hotel in Doonbeg, County Clare.
  • The itinerary includes a visit to the U.S. Embassy in Dublin and meetings with Irish President Catherine Connolly and Taoiseach Micheál Martin, according to a White House official cited by the *New York Post*.

Background & Context

  • Trump bought the Doonbeg course in 2014; the 400-acre resort was originally designed by Greg Norman.
  • The property has been promoted as revitalizing the local community, a claim Trump made during a 2023 visit.
  • Prior presidential trips to Trump-owned courses have mixed diplomacy with golf, such as the 2022 Scotland visit to Turnberry.

Data & Statistics

  • Planning authority An Coimisiún Pleanála set a deadline of October 29 for Trump’s firm to submit additional environmental reports and a decision deadline of November 25.

Official Statements & Responses

  • A White House official, speaking anonymously, confirmed the September itinerary and noted the trip will involve embassy staff and business officials.
  • Irish President Catherine Connolly has described Trump as “volatile” and “unpredictable,” hinting at possible tension during the meeting.

Verbatim Quotes

  • “They talked about the carbon footprint and then Obama hops onto a 747, Air Force One, and flies to Hawaii to play a round of golf and comes back,” — Donald Trump
  • “It’s one of the best, most beautiful golf courses anywhere in the world,” — Donald Trump

What’s Next

  • An Coimisiún Pleanála expects Trump’s firm to deliver a hydrological assessment and an updated Natura Impact Statement by October 29, after which a decision on the ballroom appeal is slated for November 25.