Families and tourists thronged the streets in cities and towns to mark St Patrick’s Day.

The celebration of the Irish, which has become a worldwide phenomenon, begins in Dublin from noon.

The TUV leader was speaking during a debate in the Commons.

Crowds took to the streets in cities and towns including Dublin, Belfast and Athy in Co Kildare as pageants unfolded with Irish dancers and leprechaun costumes in evidence.

The parade was led out of the grounds of City Hall by Lord Mayor Micky Murray.

Minister for Finance Michael McGrath is to travel to China and Minister for the Environment Eamon Ryan is to head to Brazil