Exactly why did the Obama Family go to Ireland?

Part of the presidents job is 'show the flag' and to meet with other heads of state. Given that the president brings the entire White House with him he's as in touch with the US in exactly the same way as if he was sitting at his desk in the Oval Office. Given that President O'Bama's mom's family came from Ireland it's a natural that he would stop there on his way to other foreign meetings. Kennedy went to Ireland several times as did Bill Clinton. If I were the president, bein' irish 'an aul, I'd be goin' 'ta ireland meself, doncha' know. Now be a good lad 'an bugger off! (I always wanted to say that)!