SDLP leader Claire Hanna says the event in the US capital was "largely a glass-clinking and selfie-taking opportunity".

Responding to Trump's "plans," Ireland's People Before Profit (PBP) party urged all Irish politicians to not attend St. Patrick's Day events at the White House this year.

The move will intensify pressure on other parties to decide whether or not they will attend the events. | UTV News

The SDLP has ruled out attending any events for St Patrick's Day in Washington DC next month. Traditionally, political leaders from across the island travel to the US capital every March to take part in events. These include the presentation by the Taoiseach of a bowl of shamrock to the US President at the White House.