Cloud hangs over Barack Obama’s visit to Ireland next month amid opposition to Freedom of Dublin award

Former president Barack Obama is due to speak at the 3Arena in Dublin in September. Photo: AP

Lord Mayor Ray McAdam wrote to the Obamas, inviting them to accept the award. Photo: Gerry Mooney

Sinn Féin's Daithí Doolan says most of his party colleagues are opposed to the granting of the award

Barack and Michelle Obama first visited Ireland in 2011. Photo by Kevin Dietsch/Getty Images

In late September, Barack Obama and his wife Michelle will make the transatlantic journey to Dublin for a much-publicised 3Arena show.

While event promoters promise a “once-in-a-lifetime” chat, it’s the story happening elsewhere in the city that’s overshadowing proceedings.

A move by the city’s Lord May

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