Taoiseach to meet Bush in New York

The Taoiseach is in New York today for the annual St Patrick’s Day reception at the White House.

The leaders of most of the North’s political parties will also participate in the reception before holding talks with US President George W Bush on the state of the Irish peace process.

The St Patrick’s Day reception will begin with the Taoiseach presenting a shamrock to Mr Bush before the Irish politicians mingle with US political and business figures.

The Taoiseach will also meet members of the New York Fire Department before holding talks with Senators Ted Kennedy and Hillary Clinton.

The day will end with a gala dinner at the American Ireland Fund before Mr Ahern jets off to an EU summit in Barcelona.