Donald Trump says he ‘loved’ backlash to Irish unity remarks

US President Donald Trump has said he “loved” the backlash to his comments in support of Irish unification.

Mr Trump spoke briefly to reporters on Sunday as he walked to the first tee on his golf resort in Doonbeg, Co Clare on the second day of his visit to Ireland.

On Saturday, Mr Trump responded to a question from the Press Association, by stating he “would love to see” Ireland unified, adding: “It’s going to happen eventually.”

When asked about the diplomatic row sparked by his comments, he said: “I loved them.”

Further asked about the backlash to his intervention, he said: “I love my comments.”

He did not appear to comment further when asked about a timeline for Irish unity or a separate question on Scottish independence.

Mr Trump also said it was “great” to be in Doonbeg and added: “I love Irish people.”

Taoiseach Micheál Martin and some other senior Irish Government figures are also attending the final day of play at the Irish Open being hosted at Mr Trump’s Doonbeg course.

It is anticipated Mr Trump will hand over the winner’s trophy at the Trump International golf resort in Doonbeg, Co Clare, before flying back to the US at the end of a two-day itinerary.

US President Donald Trump attends the Irish Open (Liam McBurney/PA)

PA Wire

A major security operation is continuing for the visit, with Ireland’s police service An Garda Síochána liaising with the Defence Forces and US Secret Service in the area around the resort.

Mr Trump’s presence sparked protests in Dublin and Clare – but Garda Commissioner Justin Kelly said there would be “no tolerance” for public disorder or attempts to impact “critical movements” of the US president.

A small number of protesters gathered at Shannon Airport on Sunday.