Gerry Adams, Sinn Fein's leader, is due to fly there next week, and so are Mr McCartney's sisters, who, along with Mr McCartney's partner Bridgeen, are invited to the White House's St Patrick's Day party, the bash at which the American polity traditionally shows its support for republican sentiment.

ECONOMIST: Northern Ireland

McCain told CNN's Dana Bash last Friday that he was not going to switch to the Democratic Party.

CNN: McCain, Daschle to meet this weekend

From a Mediterranean luncheon to a poolside party, GreatEntertaining.com delivers all the accoutrements for throwing a successful bash.

FORBES: Party Planning