Some doubt has been cast over the US president’s visit to Ireland.

Joe Biden is due to arrive in the North on April 11th before embarking on a visit to the Republic between April 12th and 15th.

It has emerged today, however, that the president’s team is keeping an eye on the health of former US President Jimmy Carter and Pope Francis

Carter (98) has been in palliative care since February, while 86 year old Pope Francis is said to be improving after being admitted to hospital with a respiratory infection.

If something were to happen to either man, it is understood President Biden’s visit to Ireland would be cancelled.

Meanwhile, plans for the visit are continuing, with officials looking at organising a large event in the west of Ireland – most likely in Ballina.