President Mary McAleese had turned down the opportunity to be Grand Marshall of next year’s St Patrick’s Day parade in New York.
Ms McAleese, whose term comes to an end next year, said she was honoured to be considered for the position but could not attend.
"Unfortunately, due to scheduling constraints in a very busy final year in office, it is not possible for the President to travel to New York next March," a statement from her office said.
"The President has conveyed to the organisers her deep appreciation for the invitation as well as her very best wishes for the success of the parade in this significant anniversary year."
Ms McAleese previously attended the event in 2002.