President Bill Clinton is likely to stay at a luxury hotel owned by a staunch US Republican when he visits the mid-west next month.
"It's not official, the White House is talking to a number of people in the area," Mr Stephen Quinn, general manager of Adare Manor Hotel, said yesterday.
Adare Manor is owned by Mr Bill Kane, a supporter of the Republican Party in New Jersey.
Mr Clinton was expected to favour Dromoland Castle, where the investors are mainly wealthy supporters of the Democratic Party. They also include Dr Tony O'Reilly, whose association with the worldwide Ireland Funds was expected to tip the balance in Dromoland's favour.
When former US president Ronald Reagan visited Ireland in 1984 he stayed in Ashford Castle, a sister property of Dromoland, which is owned by many of the same investors.
Last night Mr Mark Nolan, Dromoland's general manager, said: "It's been confirmed, he's not staying with us. It's disappointing, but the logistics meant that the presidential entourage would have to stay in a hotel closer to Ballybunion."
At Adare Manor Mr Quinn said: "You can be sure of one thing: he will not be staying in a bed-and-breakfast in Ballybunion."
Mr Clinton is scheduled to play a round of golf in Ballybunion. Adare is closer to Ballybunion than Dromoland, which is in Co Clare.
The overnight rate in Adare Manor is £165.50 during the period Mr Clinton will be in the area. Breakfast is extra.
Dromoland is considerably more expensive at £260 a night without breakfast. Both hotels have golf courses attached, but Mr Clinton has committed himself to playing in Ballybunion because of an invitation from the former minister for foreign affairs and North Kerry TD, Mr Dick Spring.
Ballybunion's links course is well known among American golfers because of the publicity given to it by prominent players such as Tom Watson. Some American players taking part in the British Open like to warm up at Ballybunion as few of them are accustomed to playing links courses.
Mr Spring is certain to be part of the foursome playing with President Clinton.
The Adare Manor kitchens are unlikely to be put under pressure: Mr Clinton is known to be a frugal eater. However, should he decide to splurge, the set dinner is £32.50.