Taoiseach Brian Cowen today made a triumphant return to his political heartland in Co Offaly.
Thousands of well-wishers turned out to greet their local hero who succeeded Bertie Ahern as Government leader on Wednesday.
The homecoming was described as the biggest event in the county since its first-ever All-Ireland Hurling Final victory in 1982.
Cowen was formally appointed as Taoiseach by President McAleese on Wednesday
The TD’s first stop inside the county was in Edenderry where the town square was festooned with bunting, flags and ‘Welcome Home Taoiseach’ banners.
Mr Cowen told the crowd: “I want to express my sincere gratitude to the people of Co Offaly who first set me off on my political journey back in 1984.
“It is a huge honour for me to become Taoiseach of this country and I promise to perform in the job to the best of my abilities.” Mr Cowen said the public reception in his home county was fantastic. “It is very heartening,” he added.
He later told reporters that his immediate priority was to ensure victory in the Lisbon Treaty referendum on June 12th.
“It is very important that we get a Yes vote. It is critically important to our strategic interest and to our national interest,” he said.
Offaly County Council also bestowed a civic reception on Mr Cowen in Tullamore - the highest honour for a citizen.
“It is designed to recognise Mr Cowen’s outstanding achievement and his contribution and commitment to Co Offaly,” a Council spokesman said.
The local Fianna Fail organisation also hosted public events in Mr Cowen’s home town of Clara, where up to 50,000 people are expected in the town centre.
Pubs are stocking up on food and alcohol to fuel the carnival-style atmosphere.
Farmers have allowed their fields to be used as temporary car parks for the well-wishers.
The Taoiseach will continue his tour of his home country tomorrow afternoon with a visit to Ferbane and Birr.