It’s not everyday you receive a letter from the President of the United States, but that’s exactly what arrived to Councillor Mark Duffy this morning.
The cathaoirleach of the Ballina Municipal District has shared the letter on his social media page, following President Joe Biden’s historic visit to Ballina last month in conjunction with the Ballina 2023 300 year celebrations. Councillor Duffy made a speech to the crowd which was well-received before President Biden’s address.
The letter, dated May 5, 2023 and signed off with the White House stamp, is as follows:
“Dear Mark,
“It was great to meet you during my trip to County Mayo, and thank you for the warm welcome you showed me and my team in Ballina.
“From giving remarks before my speech at St Muradech’s Cathedral to inviting members of my staff to Easter Mass, I deeply appreciate your kindness and hospitality. And thank you for all that you have done as Mayor to help deepen the partnership and strengthen the friendship between the Irish and American people.
“As I said during my speech, coming to Ireland felt like coming home – and that’s thanks in large part to leaders like you. Please give my best to Sarah. And as always, Mayo for Sam!”
A lovely letter to receive from @POTUS this morning, great to see he’s spreading the faith for Mayo this year! pic.twitter.com/eQDTN9d27x
— Mark Duffy (@markduffymayo) May 23, 2023