Bob's Blog
From the Brussels Forum 2010
I have just finished a trip to Belgium for the annual Brussels Forum which brings together policy makers, civil society groups and opinion leaders for discussion on transatlantic issues. This gathering allowed me to meet with key leaders on the international stage and discuss two issues at the forefront of my foreign policy priorities, the growing threat from Iran and the ongoing crisis related to food security...
Rooney Confirmed as U.S. Ambassador to Ireland!
I have great news to share. Only a day after his nomination hearing before the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, Dan Rooney was confirmed as U.S. Ambassador to Ireland late Thursday evening by a unanimous vote of the United States Senate. While it typically takes several weeks following their confirmation hearing before an uncontroversial nominee is confirmed by the full Senate, I recognized that it made no sense to force a civic treasure like Dan Rooney to wait on an arbitrary timetable. Thus, I worked closely with Chairman John Kerry and the lead Republican, Dick Lugar, on the Senate Foreign Relations Committee to "hotline" his nomination in a span of 24 hours. It took some work but was well worth it.
I couldn't be more proud of a fellow Pennsylvanian. As Dan prepares to depart for Ireland to represent our Nation, he does so with an uncommon blend of humility and decency that has made him a beloved icon of Steeler Nation for more than 50 years.
Dan Rooney Hearing before Senate Foreign Relations Committee
On St. Patrick's Day, President Obama announced his intent to nominate Dan Rooney, the Chairman and principal owner of the Pittsburgh Steelers, to be the next United States Ambassador to Ireland. Yesterday, I had the opportunity to deliver an opening statement at Dan's confirmation hearing conveying my strong endorsement of Dan as an ideal American to represent our Nation’s interests in the Emerald Isle.
Dan is a good friend, an outstanding leader, and a proud Pennsylvanian. Dan’s lifelong interest in the Irish culture and his passion for fostering a greater partnership between our two nations gives me confidence that he is the right man for the job. Although this nomination means he will be parting with the Steelers, I know that Dan is leaving our beloved team in good hands. I look forward to his confirmation and his future service to our country.
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