The Government has rejected a proposal by a number of Independent Alliance TDs to travel to North Korea.

John Halligan had written to the North Korean embassy in London, seeking to visit the reclusive state for talks.

Mr Halligan has said it's not good enough that the only dialogue towards Korea from the west has been US President Donald Trump threatening to blow them up.

He and his party colleague, Finian McGrath, told the Irish Daily Mail they would welcome an opportunity to hold talks.

Mr Halligan said while they may not be able to go as members of the Government, he hoped they could travel as TDs.

But the Department of Foreign Affairs says: "The Government position remains that we do not support any parliamentary delegation visiting North Korea at this time, given the sensitivities involved.

"Ireland fully supports the EU policy on the DPRK and the international sanctions regime against North Korea."

Foreign Affairs Minister Simon Coveney says he has spoken with Minister Halligan - and they agreed officials will provide Mr Halligan with a "full briefing on North Korea" next week.