Obama, Irish PM to celebrate St. Patrick's Day

[March 19, 2013]  WASHINGTON (AP) -- President Barack Obama is marking his fifth St. Patrick's Day in the White House with a schedule of Irish-themed events. The events are taking place Tuesday because St. Patrick's Day fell on a Sunday this year.

Obama meets with Irish Prime Minister Enda Kenny in the Oval Office before heading to the Capitol for an annual luncheon. Anthony Kearns of The Irish Tenors will perform.

Obama also meets with Peter Robinson, the leader of Northern Ireland's Catholic-Protestant government, and Robinson's deputy, Martin McGuinness, to discuss progress toward reconciliation.

The Obamas will host an evening reception where the president will receive a bowl of shamrocks from Kenny. It's a tradition started under President Harry Truman.

Obama leaves Tuesday evening for a trip to Israel, the West Bank and Jordan.

[Associated Press]

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