Joe Biden attends Hunter’s award ceremony in Dublin

Former U.S. President Joe Biden made a surprise appearance at Trinity College Dublin on Tuesday to attend a ceremony where his son, Hunter Biden, received the College Historical Society’s Gold Medal for Outstanding Contribution for Public Discourse. Jill Biden also attended.

The award was presented by the College Historical Society, also known as The Hist. The society has cited Hunter Biden’s advocacy on American politics and media, as well as addiction and recovery, among its reasons for recognizing him. He spoke at the ceremony about a family intervention during his struggle with addiction, according to an account of the event.

Demonstrators and onlookers gathered outside the venue. As Joe Biden left, some people moved forward and objects were thrown, reports said. Gardaí public order officers were present, and at least two people were arrested. The reports did not identify the basis for the arrests or say whether charges were filed.

During the visit, Biden also met Taoiseach Micheál Martin. Martin said he thanked Biden for supporting Ireland, including during Brexit and in relation to the Good Friday Agreement. He also said they recalled Biden’s 2023 visit to Ireland.