Ahern to meet Bush in St Patrick's Day talks

The North, climate change and the plight of the undocumented Irish are expected to be discussed by Taoiseach Bertie Ahern and President George Bush in Washington today.

The global economic situation, US trade and investment with Ireland and a number of international issues will also be touched upon before the two leaders take part in the traditional St Patrick’s Day shamrock ceremony.

The Taoiseach will present the President with a bowl of shamrock in the White House to symbolise the bonds between Ireland and the United States.

“The Taoiseach and the President will then travel to Capitol Hill for the St Patrick’s Day lunch hosted by the Speaker of the House of representatives, Nancy Pelosi,” a government spokesman said.

“The Taoiseach will also meet other senior political and business figures in Washington in the course of the day.”