The Ancient Order of Hibernians welcomes the formal nomination by the President of Mr. Edward Crawford as Ambassador to the Republic of Ireland. Mr. Crawford’s impressive business credentials and strong cultural connections to Ireland uniquely qualify him for this vital role at this key moment in US-Irish relations. That as a son of County Cork Mr. Crawford was honored as the “Man of the Year” by The Mayo Society of Greater Cleveland bespeaks considerable talents as a diplomat.
The Hibernians respectfully request that the members of the United States Senate expedite the approval of this worthy candidate. At the time of Mr. Crawford’s formal nomination, it had been 640 days since there was a US Ambassador to Ireland. The United Kingdom’s decision to pursue Brexit is reshaping the map of Europe; it is of vital US interest that the already strong bonds of friendship between the Republic of Ireland and the United States be renewed and reinforced. With the departure of the UK from the EU, the Republic of Ireland will be the only predominantly English-speaking country within the European Union. The Republic of Ireland is also home to the EU’s fastest growing economy and its influence is increasing proportionately. It is vital at this inflection point in the history of Europe that America reestablish a long overdue diplomatic presence in Ireland.
The special relationship between the United States and Ireland dates from the time when both nations were colonies. George Washington repeatedly acknowledged the vital contribution that Ireland played in support of America’s quest for independence, a gesture which was reciprocated when Ireland made its own bid for liberty. In these trying times, both nations need to reaffirm the ties of friendship that the exchange of ambassadors signifies. The impact to the history of both nations of the US-Irish relationship cannot be overstated, nor its importance to the future overvalued. The Hibernians ask that the US Senate come together as Americans and in the best interest of the United States confirm Mr. Crawford as the next Ambassador to the Republic of Ireland.