Toibín among thousands stranded by US 'monster storm'

Aontú leader and Meath West TD Peadar Toibin is among the thousands of travellers stranded in the US as a deadly winter storm wreaked havoc across the country.

Deputy Toibin was visiting Washington and New York when what has been described as a 'monster storm' hit huge swathes of the United States, killing at least 10 people and causing mass flight cancellations and power outages.

He was due to fly back (today) Monday, but is now hoping to fly back Tuesday. "The heavy snow is expected to stop tonight so I hope to get back tomorrow. It is crazy.The whole place is nuts, but it looks class. I'll be able to work on my computer. Hope all is well in Meath," he said.

During his visit to the US,Deputy Toibin met with senators and members of Congress as well as the Irish diaspora.

Deputy Tóibín said Aontú has set up 'Friends of Aontú USA'. "Over the last few years we have had a lot of Irish people in the US showing good interest in Aontú. Many have been asking how they can help to fix the growing problems in Ireland. Friends of Aontú USA is an opportunity for Irish people in the US to help."

Deputy Tóibin said another reason for setting up Friends of Aontú USA is to harness good will for Irish Unity.

"The Irish independence project and the Irish in America have gone hand in hand for generations. I believe that we will see Irish Unity in the next 15 years. Irish America will be central to that.

"Aontú also wants to build leverage on Capitol Hill. We believe that this can positively shape the Irish American relationship from economics, to investment to Irish Unity. Having a significant presence in the US will help with that."

Deputy Tóibín was in Washington DC on Thursday and Friday meeting with senators, congressmen and congresswomen and addressed a Friends of Aontú USA meeting in New York on Saturday .