St. Patrick’s Day overseas trips: Where are Waterford's Ministers going?

As part of the government's St. Patrick's programme, forty representatives of the State will be visiting 50 countries worldwide to "promote Ireland, Irish values and Ireland’s interests across the world.” 

This year, Taoiseach Michaél Martin will be travelling to Washington DC to meet US president Donald Trump. He will also be visiting Philadelphia.

Meanwhile, Tánaiste Simon Harris will be visiting Paris and London.

Waterford Ministers Mary Butler and John Cummins will both be on visits overseas this year, to engage with "political, business, civil society, cultural and diaspora leaders."

Minister Butler, Government Chief Whip and Minister of State at the Department of Health, will be visiting Portugal and Spain.

John Cummins, Minister of State at the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage, will be in Scotland and the North of England.

Speaking on the global visits, Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade, Helen McEntee, said:

“The theme for St. Patrick’s Day 2026 will highlight Ireland’s place in the world as a small, open trading economy. It will reflect our economic success, built on openness and strong partnerships, and Ireland’s long-standing commitment to multilateralism.

“The 2026 St. Patrick’s Day programme will place a stronger emphasis on trade and investment. Ministers will promote trade, investment, tourism, and international research and education partnerships in priority locations, including high-value, new and emerging markets.

“Ahead of Ireland’s Presidency of the Council of the European Union in the second half of the year, Ministers travelling within Europe will also engage with counterparts on preparations for the Presidency and underline the importance the Government places on shaping EU policy and decision-making.”