Thousands on move for St Patrick's Day

The traditional bank holiday exodus is underway in earnest today, with thousands travelling by rail, plane and road for the St Patrick's weekend.

Motorists are being urged to allow extra time for their journeys due to increased traffic on the road.

They are also being warned not to drink and drive as gardaí will be out in force this weekend to catch any wrong-doers.

Meanwhile, more than 200,000 people are expected to use rail services across the country this weekend, with passengers being urged to book online to ensure they have a seat.

The airports are also expecting a huge surge in passengers for St Patrick's Day celebrations, as well as an exodus of rugby fans heading to tomorrow's Six Nations clash in Rome.