Finance Minister says Taoiseach's trip to U.S for St Patrick's Day is an essential journey

The Finance Minister believes the Taoiseach should travel to the United States to meet President Joe Biden for the annual St Patrick's Day tradition.

Micheal Martin has said covid-19 could dictate whether or not he is able to travel to the White House for the March event.

It would mark the first in-person meeting between the two leaders since President Biden was sworn into office earlier this month.

Minister Paschal Donohoe says the annual White House visit is very much an essential journey.