Dublin city council passed the vote last night.
Former US president Barack Obama, and former first lady Michelle Obama are to be given the Freedom of the City after a motion was passed by Dublin city councillors last night.
Councillors voted in the majority to give the award to the couple which is given to honour the contribution and influence of people on the city.
Lord Mayor of Dublin Brendan Carr proposed the Obama’s for the award to honour Barack for his “moderating and progressive” influence on the world and in recognition for the work Michelle has done campaigning for refugees and women’s access to education.
There will be an official ceremony for the award, although it is unconfirmed whether or not the Obama’s will attend to accept such an award.
But according to RTÉ, Lord Mayor Carr said that they had confirmed through contacts that the Obama’s would be happy to accept the award and use it as another excuse to visit Ireland.
Following the close council vote last night, Lord Mayor Carr tweeted the news.
I am delighted that @DubCityCouncil will confer the Honorary Freedom of the City of Dublin on Barack and Michelle Obama. @ObamaFoundation
— Lord Mayor of Dublin (@LordMayorDublin) February 6, 2017
Former recipients of the award include John F. Kennedy, Bill Clinton, Nelson Mandela, Fr. Peter McVerry and Brian O’Driscoll.
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