Ministers ‘should report to Seanad on Paddy’s Day trips’

Fine Gael Senator Jerry Buttimer is calling for ministers who travel abroad for St. Patrick's Day to be required to deliver a report to the Seanad on their respective trips.

Mr Buttimer says there is no evidence that all of the trips will be of benefit to the State.

Seventeen ministers are due to travel to various international locations next week as part of the annual St Patrick's Day exodus.

The Government insists that the trips are good promotional opportunities for Ireland.