Martin begins three-day visit to US

Foreign Affairs Minister Micheál Martin is beginning a three-day visit to the US today.

Mr Martin is due to travel to Capitol Hill in Washington to speak with senior members of Congress, including Senator John McCain.

He will brief the US politicians on the outcome of the Lisbon Treaty referendum, the current situation in the North and the recent Global Irish Economic Forum at Farmleigh.

The minister will also raise the issue of Irish immigrants living illegally in the US.

Meanwhile, President Mary McAleese is travelling to Luxembourg later today for a two-day state visit.

Mrs McAleese is due to meet the country's Prime Minister Jean-Claude Juncker and will also attend a state dinner with the Royal Highnesses Grand Duke Henri and the Grand Duchess Marie Teresa.