Donald Trump: Staff at his Irish golf resort 'delighted' by election win
- Published
Among those congratulating US President Elect Donald Trump on his election victory were the staff of his golf resort in the Republic of Ireland
Donald Trump is a "polite" man whose election success will be "great for Ireland," according to the boss of his Irish golf resort, Doonbeg.
Joe Russell said he hopes to see Mr Trump return to Doonbeg in County Clare as US president, to boost the economy.
The Republican candidate defeated his rival Hillary Clinton in one of the most divisive elections in US history.
Mr Trump was heavily criticised for his statements about women and immigrants during the campaign.
Even French President Francois Hollande joined the chorus of dissent on Tuesday, saying that Mr Trump made people "feel nauseous".
'Very calm'
But Doonbeg's general manager said: "The Trump that we know is a very different person to the one that's portrayed in the media."
"On a one-to-one basis, he's quite measured, very calm, very disciplined," Mr Russell said.
The reality TV star bought the golf resort on the County Clare coast in February 2014. His most recent visit was last year.
Donald Trump bought Doonbeg Golf Club in the Republic of Ireland in February 2014 and renamed it Trump International Golf Links and Hotel, Doonbeg
Mr Russell described him as a man who always treated his staff with respect, "seeking out opinions and listening intently to advice".
"He doesn't drink or smoke, he just works really hard."
'Close-knit family'
He added that Mr Trump's work ethic has been passed on to his children, who have taken over his business affairs since the election campaign began.
"Eric and Ivanka, when they come here, work from seven in the morning until the early evening, only breaking to eat," Mr Russell said.
Eric Trump is helping to run his famous father's businesses, including the Doonbeg resort
"There are no silver spoons - they travel economy and don't expect any fuss.
"They're a really close-knit family who support each other and I think you have to respect that."
'Positive'
Mr Russell, who has been manager of the Doonbeg resort for 13 years and plays golf with Mr Trump when he visits, stayed up all night to follow the election count.
"There are a lot of very tired people in Doonbeg today," he said.
"We're all delighted."
Donald Trump's son Eric (cutting ribbon) has impressed management at the Doonbeg resort with his work ethic
Mr Russell now has hopes for a presidential visit, which he believes would be a major boost to the local economy.
He shrugged off news about plunging global markets as "a temporary thing".
"They didn't fall as much as what was expected, and the same thing happened after Brexit. Things will calm down.
"It really is a positive thing for Ireland, particularly for the west of Ireland and for Shannon Airport, and for Doonbeg in particular."