because Ireland does have clout in terms of the Irish American vote and the presence of large US corporates here

I'd consider putting faith in the latter, since a lot of tech companies are over there (and tech companies tend to be more Democratic-leaning than companies in general, so they'll have more sway with Obama).  Most of the Irish in America are in New England though, and as you know with the exception of New Hampshire, New England is about as likely to vote for the GOP as I am to win the next mayoral race in Caracas.

Be nice to America. Or we'll bring democracy to your country.