Taoiseach calls for urgent Ardoyne talks

The Taoiseach is calling for urgent talks at local level to resolve the siege of the Holy Cross national school in north Belfast.

Bertie Ahern has described the situation as "shameful and deplorable". He said the appalling scenes in the Ardoyne are a vivid reminder of what can happen in a society when tolerance and understanding are lacking or absent.

He said every child has a right to go to school in peace and safety, and free from abuse and sectarian taunting. He also described it as tragic that innocent children are the victims here.

Mr Ahern told the first ever Dail na nOg that there must be urgent dialogue at local level and the voices of people of moderation must be heard and listened to.