Taoiseach defends presence in New York parade

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”.

Enda Kenny yesterday met with the Boston mayor, Marty Walsh, who refused to take part in his city’s parade after talks with its organisers failed to reach a deal that would allow gay and lesbian activists to march openly.

“So much of our Irish history has been shaped by the fight against oppression, ” said Mr Walsh, who is Boston’s first Irish-American Mayor in 20 years.