Overview
- After a weekend of engagements in Philadelphia, including the St Patrick’s Day parade and wreath‑laying at the Irish Memorial, the taoiseach is heading to Washington, D.C. for the next phase of his visit.
- A bilateral Oval Office meeting with President Donald Trump is confirmed for Tuesday, followed by the traditional shamrock‑gifting ceremony at the White House that evening.
- Micheál Martin described the war in Iran as the “big issue” he will raise, calling for a rapid de‑escalation and emphasizing the protection of civilian lives.
- In speeches, he underscored Ireland–US economic ties, noting Ireland is now the fifth‑largest source of foreign direct investment in the United States and calling Ireland’s commitment to the relationship “steadfast.”
- Opposition parties in Dublin continue to press him to condemn US‑Israeli strikes on Iran, while in Northern Ireland some Sinn Féin figures, including Michelle O’Neill, are boycotting the White House event as deputy First Minister Emma Little‑Pengelly plans to attend.