‘A great philanthropist… a champion golfer’ – Donald Trump names Ed Walsh as next US ambassador to Ireland

Mr Trump, who will begin his second term in office next month, announced the decision on his social media platform Truth Social, describing Mr Walsh as a “great philanthropist” and a “champion golfer, a very good asset for the ambassador of Ireland to have”.

Mr Walsh is the president of New Jersey-based construction and real estate firm the Walsh Company, which he founded in 2003.

In a statement, Mr Trump said he was pleased to name Mr Walsh, who will take over from Claire Cronin as the next Irish ambassador if confirmed by the Senate, on January 20, the end of President Joe Biden’s term in office.

“Edward is the President of the Walsh Company, a very successful nationwide construction and real estate firm,” Mr Trump said.

“He is a great philanthropist in his local community, and previously served as the Chairman of the New Jersey Schools Development Authority Board. He is also a Champion Golfer, a very good asset for the Ambassador of Ireland to have. Do well Ed!”

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