Meanwhile, the Taoiseach has been forced to cancel some of his events in the United States, due to winter storms and threats of up to two feet of snow.

Boston mayor Marty Walsh has warned Taoiseach Enda Kenny he will not support any deal that only saves illegal Irish people from Donald Trump's immigration clampdown, insisting Ireland must stand up for all immigrants during Thursday's White House visit.

Taoiseach Enda Kenny is this morning travelling to the US for a week-long St Patrick's Day visit, writes Fiachra O Cionnaith of the Irish Examiner.

The first Irish-American Mayor of Boston in 20 years Marty Walsh departed from Shannon Airport this morning following an 11 day visit admitting Ireland is very much an economy on the move again.

Welcome to your Monday morning briefing. Let us ensure you’re up to speed on what’s happening and are prepared for the day ahead.

Katie O’Halloran never thought a conversation born in Connemara would bring her to Boston to meet with Mayor Marty Walsh on the eve of a symbolic marathon.

It was the “Southie Selfie” that showed just how important the day of Irish celebration is to the most powerful in Boston politics.

The Taoiseach has defended his decision to march in today’s St Patrick’s Day parade in New York — despite its exclusion of gay groups — saying it will be a “good occasion” because of the “extraordinary connection between Ireland and the United States”.

ENGLAND: The Houses of Parliament may have been infested with “mutant” rats which are becoming immune to traditional poisons.