Trump backs united Ireland, sparking row with local unionists

US President Donald Trump has expressed his desire for a united Ireland during a meeting with the Irish Prime Minister, Micheál Martin, in Dublin. The meeting took place at Farmleigh House in Phoenix Park, where Trump stated that a united Ireland would be a 'fantastic thing'. He added that the UK would have to take notice, but he believes it would be a positive development. Trump's comments have sparked a row with local unionists, who disagree with his views on the matter. The leader of the Democratic Unionist Party, Gavin Robinson, said that elections are the key to Northern Ireland's future, and that Trump does not understand the complexities of the issue. The Traditional Unionist Voice leader, Jim Allister, accused Trump of meddling in affairs that do not concern him. Trump's comments have also been criticized by the Ulster Unionist Party leader, Jon Burrows, who believes that Northern Ireland's future will be decided by its people. The Irish President, Catherine Connolly, was not present at the meeting, but was visited earlier by Trump at Áras an Uachtaráin, the official residence of the Irish president. Trump is currently on a two-day visit to Ireland, before attending the Amgen Irish Open golf tournament in Doonbeg, County Clare.