Irish troops could yet serve for UN in Iraq

TAOISEACH Bertie Ahern has given the strongest indication yet that Irish troops will be sent to Iraq if there is a new United Nations mandate.

The Taoiseach, who was speaking after a meeting with Senator Hillary Clinton in Albany, New York, revealed that a new Security Council resolution would change Ireland's position on Iraq and could open up the way for Irish troops to be deployed there.

Later this week, Mr Ahern will address the United Nations General Assembly in New York where he is expected to set out Ireland's position on Iraq.