Protests Greet Ronald Reagan

The arrival of US President Ronal Reagan in Galway is met with protest.

US President Ronald Reagan arrived by helicopter, landing at the Greyhound track just outside Galway city.

President Reagan was accompanied by the Minister for Foreign Affairs Peter Barry and his wife. They were met on arrival in Galway by Taoiseach Dr Garret FitzGerald and the Mayor of Galway Dr Michael Leahy. President Reagan began his journey by limousine to the University of Galway where he was conferred with an honorary degree.

Garret FitzGerald told RTÉ News that he felt the presidential visit was going very well so far. However, in Galway protesters thronged into Eyre Square in opposition to US foreign policy and the visit of Ronald Reagan to Ireland.

Over 700 Gardaí formed a ring around the demonstration in Eyre Square. The protesters chanted Reagan out and held placards showing their opposition to war. When the presidential cavalcade came into view on the return journey, the protesters continued to shout. Secret service agents were visible on the running board of the backup vehicle and two busloads of extra Gardaí were at the front and back of the cavalcade.

The President smiled and waved at them from his car.

An RTÉ News report broadcast on 2 June 1984. The reporters are Charlie Bird and Mary Fanning.