The White House declined to say whether the annual St. Patrick’s Day tradition of hosting the Taoiseach for St. Patrick’s Day would continue this March amid the coronavirus pandemic.
Speaking at a media briefing this evening, Jen Psaki, White House Press Secretary, did not offer any clarity on whether an invitation has been extended to the Taoiseach.
While speaking to reporters, Psaki said: "We certainly have limited - as you can all see and know -public events. There has not been many public events here. I’m happy to check with our team on that if there’s any change as it relates to a traditional event that happens in March."
She did not elaborate on whether or not an invite has been extended to the Taoiseach, if the event has been cancelled, or moved to a virtual format.
Earlier today, Taoiseach Micheál Martin said that he will travel to Washington if an invitation is extended for the traditional St. Patrick's Day meeting between the leaders of Ireland and the United States.
Speaking on Morning Ireland, Martin said that he has not yet been invited to meet with President Biden.
Martin said that he would be vaccinated if he is to go.
"It's a very important relationship between Ireland and the United States, so in some shape or form, we're going to honour it. I think we have to work it out as two administrations, and I'm conscious that we are in Covid times. There are huge challenges on the United States side, in terms of their battle against Covid.
"I'm relaxed about it. I'm confident that we can develop a very strong relationship with the United States. Patrick's Day represents a great opportunity and always has, for Ireland.
"But I think it's important that both administrations work out what's the optimal way of marking the US-Irish relationship this Saint Patrick's Day."
The Taoiseach also noted that he has been "amused" by the "debate" surrounding whether or not he will go.
