Hanafin: Ministers use St Patrick's Day trips to promote country

Outgoing senior minister Mary Hanafin is hitting out at the criticism of ministers travelling overseas for St Patrick's Day.

Ms Hanafin, the deputy leader of Fianna Fáil, said the media "needs to cop on".

She made the remarks at an event in Dublin organised by the Irish Business and Employers Confederation and the Small Firms Association.

Ms Hanafin said it is important that ministers use the opportunities provided on March 17 to promote Ireland in other countries.