Government anxious to steer clear of any Doonbeg bunkers

Irish Prime Minister Micheál Martin and US President Donald Trump are set to meet at the Irish Open Golf Tournament in Co Clare today, despite recent tensions over the prospect of Irish unification. President Trump has been outspoken about his belief that Irish reunification is inevitable, a statement that has drawn criticism from British political leaders, including Prime Minister Andy Burnham.

Martin will join other senior government officials, including Tourism Minister Patrick O Donovan and Minister of State for Sport Charlie McConalogue, at the final day of play at Trump's Doonbeg resort. The trio are expected to award the trophy to the tournament's winner, with Shane Lowry of Offaly leading at the moment with a four-shot advantage.

While no formal meeting is planned between Martin and Trump, the President's potential presence on the course and interaction with the media could lead to unpredictable developments during the second day of his Irish visit. As Trump prepares to leave Doonbeg resort for Shannon Airport in the evening, the visit highlights the complex relationship between the two leaders and the challenges of navigating diplomatic differences.