What I was trying to say - and failed to achieve - was that I know a lot of Irish jokes, but I wouldn't presume to try to write Irish-style literature!

Well, with Paddy's day fast approaching you may, or may not, be aware that el presidente de los estados unidos (as his sister-in-law calls him), traditionally holds a big shindif in the white house for the Irish political leaders and the Irish-American glitterati.

Past incumbents have looked forward to this as the highlight of the year and revel in their Irishness (or part-Irishness at least). Last year was Dubya's first outing in the Green seat, however, and he was more then a little uncomfortable being in the presence of so many eloquent speakers and so remained quiet throughout.

One of the Dublin politicians approached him during the party and asked him why he wasn't talking to anyone to which he replied - 'because I've been told that I speak the way that your Mr. Joyce writes'.

Classic.

ps I know a lot of Irish jokes, too!! Unfortunately I have to work with them.