Fresh efforts to secure special work visas for Irish citizens in America will go ahead after talks between Taoiseach Leo Varadkar and US president Donald Trump.

The Taoiseach brought forward his departure to last night to avoid being in the air when the crucial votes in the House of Commons take place tonight but is taking a personal day in the States before his formal programme commences.

Ruairi Quinn will be left in charge of Ireland while Enda Kenny and 16 ministers travel abroad to celebrate St Patrick’s Day.

Enda Kenny will jet off to the US today on a St Patrick’s mission to boost Ireland’s image to the world and attract foreign investment.

Fresh controversy linked to the Government’s decision to close its Vatican embassy has erupted, as a senior US cleric has turned down an invitation to a St Patrick’s Day event at which Taoiseach Enda Kenny will speak.