Thousands of protesters will call for end to Iraqi conflict

THOUSANDS of anti-war protesters are expected to take to the streets of the capital tomorrow in a renewed call for an end to the conflict in Iraq and the use of Shannon airport as a stopover for US forces.

As part of a worldwide protest to mark the second anniversary of the invasion of Iraq, protesters from the Irish anti-war movement will lead a march in Dublin city, while major demonstrations are also expected in 100 cities across the world.

"There's a concerted campaign by the US administration that the situation in Iraq is improving, and while this is not the case, it has had the effect of defusing the anti-war sentiment," said Irish Anti-War Movement chairperson Richard Boyd-Barrett.

"It seems as if the Government is determined to keep collaborating with the US war machine they think money is more important than human lives so this is to remind people about that," he said. As people lined out across the country to enjoy St Patrick's Day celebrations yesterday, anti-war campaigners distributed hundreds of leaflets calling on people to take part in the rally.

The protesters were encouraged by the news this week of Italy's decision to begin a withdrawal of its 3,000 troops from Iraq in September.

"The decision of the Italians to pull out of Iraq should be an inspiration for people in Ireland who want to see an end to Irish collusion with Bush's war," said Mr Boyd-Barrett.

"Bertie Ahern has tried to put the big anti-war protests behind him and draw a line under the issue of Shannon. We must not let him get away with this."

The protest begins at Parnell Square at 2pm and will proceed to the Dáil.

A Department of Foreign Affairs spokesperson said: "The provision of facilities to US military at Shannon airport has been a longstanding practice."