The Daily Star Ireland
The Social Democratic and Labour Party (SDLP) has confirmed that it will not participate in St. Patrick’s Day celebrations in Washington, D.C., next month, marking the second consecutive year the party has declined to attend.
Each March, political leaders from across Ireland traditionally travel to the U.S. capital to take part in various diplomatic and cultural events, including the Taoiseach’s presentation of a bowl of shamrock to the U.S. President at the White House.
However, SDLP leader Claire Hanna stated that the party will not take part, citing continued U.S. support for military action in Gaza as the primary reason for their absence.
SDLP Leader Condemns U.S. Role in Gaza Conflict
Hanna emphasized that the party took the same stance last year, choosing not to send a delegation because it could not endorse the U.S. government’s position while it armed and supported the bombardment of Gaza.
She acknowledged that the current ceasefire offers hope for peace and the return of hostages, but strongly criticized former U.S. President Donald Trump’s rhetoric regarding the displacement of millions of Palestinians, describing it as beyond unacceptable.
“We can’t in good conscience attend parties hosted in that context,” she declared.
Uncertainty Over Northern Ireland’s Participation
Northern Ireland’s First Minister Michelle O’Neill and Deputy First Minister Emma Little-Pengelly have yet to confirm their attendance at this year’s St. Patrick’s Day events in Washington.
Speaking last month, O’Neill stated that no invitation had been received yet, adding that the matter would be considered if and when an invitation arrives.
Calls for the Taoiseach to Skip White House Visit
Meanwhile, Solidarity-People Before Profit TD Ruth Coppinger has urged Taoiseach Micheál Martin to boycott the White House event over concerns about U.S. foreign and domestic policies under Trump.
Speaking at Leinster House, Coppinger questioned whether the Taoiseach had set any conditions under which he would refuse to travel to Washington if invited.
She highlighted a range of concerns over Trump’s policies, particularly his stance on Gaza, and suggested that Ireland should not engage in ceremonial diplomacy without addressing these issues directly.
However, she criticized Martin’s approach, stating:
“The Taoiseach seems determined to go, come hell or high water.”
Micheál Martin Defends St. Patrick’s Day Tradition
Despite the criticism, Micheál Martin has defended his anticipated trip to Washington, asserting that it remains an important diplomatic tradition.
He noted that when Trump was previously president, Ireland and the U.S. maintained strong relations, and he expects to continue that engagement if invited.
“It’s a time-honored tradition that we appreciate,” Martin stated.
He also confirmed that during his meeting with Trump, he would raise a broad range of issues, ensuring that key concerns are discussed.
