Barack and Michelle Obama have been given the freedom of Dublin city.
The motion was this evening granted by Dublin city councillors with the final vote tallying at 30 in favour, 23 against and 3 abstentions.
According to RTÉ, Lord Mayor Councillor Brendan Carr said the award was to recognise Barack Obama’s influential “progressive” role on the world stage while also crediting Michelle for both her dedication to education for all and her campaign work for refugees.
Those awarded with this status are often referred to as a ‘Freeman’ or ‘Freewoman’ of Dublin and recipients also become honorary citizens of Dublin, if they are not so already.
The Obamas last visited Ireland in 2011, taking in a visit to Barack’s ancestral home in Moneygall, Co. Offaly.
Here’s hoping this convinces them to make a return visit soon…
