COWEN VISIT:THE PEOPLE of Ireland were very proud to claim Joe Biden as "one of our own", Taoiseach Brian Cowen said at a breakfast in the vice-president's residence in the US capital yesterday.
The Taoiseach emphasised “how proud we are that the vice-president of the United States is also an Irishman”.
Mr Cowen made special mention of the vice-president’s mother, Jean Finnegan Biden, who is recently deceased.
“We think of her today, and her story of dedication and service, which reflects so much about the Irish immigrant journey to these shores.”
He recalled that Mr Biden had characterised his mother in a speech in 2006 as a “role-model of an Irish-American”.
“I hear that she was not only a person of great character, but of some determination too.
“I am sure that you, along with many of your guests here, have many stories to share about that spirit of determination which helped shape the future of the children and grandchildren of those immigrants today.”
Speaking in the presence of the late senator Edward Kennedy’s widow, Vicky, Mr Cowen said: “We could not let this moment pass either without reflecting on the memory and legacy of our dear friend, Ted Kennedy, who we miss especially today. ”
He told Mr Biden: “I salute your leadership, and I wish you well in all that you do. I hope that maybe Jill [the vice-president’s wife] and yourself will find some time to visit Ireland soon. You will be assured of the warmest of welcomes.”
In his remarks, the vice-president recalled an old saying: “If you’re lucky enough to be Irish, then you’re lucky enough.”
He said it was an “honour” to have Vicky Kennedy and Karen Kennedy, the senator’s daughter, present for the occasion.
Mrs Kennedy was clearly moved as the vice-president remarked that it was “kinda strange” to be without the presence of “the patron saint of all of us” in Irish-America, Teddy Kennedy, on St Patrick’s Day.
Recalling his mother who died at 92 years, Mr Biden said she was “a quintessential Irish-American” who was “spiritual” and “romantic” and “understood the thickest of all substances is blood”.
“She taught us that failure at some point was inevitable; but giving up was unforgivable.”
He felt his mother was looking on at the occasion that morning and making sure he was wearing his shamrock in his lapel.