Taoiseach Micheál Martin will be winging his way west for Saint Patrick's Day in Washington, D.C.
But if Martin's plane is facing into meteorological headwinds over the Atlantic there will also be significant political headwinds blowing to his plane's rear back in Ireland.
That's because many members of the public and numerous political figures don't want Martin to include in his American itinerary the traditional shamrock bowl ceremony which, when it presumably takes place, will see Martin, as he did last year, present the bowl to President Donald Trump.
Trump, in a number of contexts, not least Greenland, is the reason for voices being raised against a Martin stop in the White House.
But as of now that's where Martin is headed. He will also be including a visit to Philadelphia in what is the 250th anniversary year of the American Republic.
Martin's itinerary is only part of an ambitious Irish government plan for Saint Patrick's Day when a host of government figures will be fanning out across the United States and the rest of the world spreading the word that Ireland is a country worth taking note of.
The Irish government, in announcing its "St. Patrick’s Day programme for 2026," said that the program will see the Taoiseach, the Tánaiste and representatives of the State travel to more than 50 countries to promote Ireland, Irish values and Ireland’s interests across the world.
The Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade, Helen McEntee, said: “St. Patrick’s Day provides an unparalleled opportunity to showcase Ireland on the global stage and to engage at the highest levels with political, business, civil society, cultural and diaspora leaders.
"This year, 40 representatives of the State will carry Ireland’s message to cities across more than 50 countries worldwide.
“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.”
An accompanying statement said: "In line with the Government’s Action Plan on Market Diversification, 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.
"In the United States, 2026 will mark the 250th anniversary of the signing of the American Declaration of Independence. The St. Patrick’s Day programme will provide a timely opportunity to highlight the significant contribution of Irish people to the founding of the United States, as well as to its political, economic and social development over the past 250 years."
