Red carpet rolled out as Canadian Prime Minister arrives in Mayo

THE red carpet was rolled out at Ireland West Airport this morning as the Canadian Prime Minister, Mark Carney, arrived on Mayo soil.

There was a warm welcome for the PM and his wife Diana Fox Carney as their much awaited visit to his ancestral home kicks off.

First stop this morning is a meeting with President Catherine Connolly at Westport House, after which the Carneys will attend Mass in Aughagower, where two of the PM's grandparents hailed from. Deceased members of the Carney and Moran families of Ayle and Mace will be prayed for during the Mass.

A civic reception will be hosted later this evening in Westport.

Among the dignitaries to greet the Carneys on arriving at Knock airport were the cathaoirleach of Mayo County Council, Councillor Sean Carey, Ministers Dara Calleary and Alan Dillon, and the chief executive of Mayo County Council, Kevin Kelly.

Minister Dillon said he was proud to welcome Mr. Carney back to the county of his family roots - a powerful reminder of the deep ties between Mayo, Ireland and Canada.