Taoiseach Departs for St Patrick's Day Visit to United States

The Taoiseach, Bertie Ahern TD, is travelling to the United States later today in advance of the traditional St Patrick's Day ceremonies at the White House and on Capitol Hill tomorrow.

The visit begins in Scranton, Pennsylvania this evening when the Taoiseach will meet members of Congress and address a St Patrick's Day event organised by the Friendly Sons of St Patrick. 

In an area that is 30% Irish, the Taoiseach is expected to pay tribute to the role of Irish America in American society and in supporting peace and prosperity back home in Ireland.  He will also stress the Government's commitment to the cause of the undocumented Irish in America.

The Taoiseach will meet with President Bush, Speaker Nancy Pelosi and other key political and business figures in Washington tomorrow.

15th March 2008