Govt attacked during neutrality debate

Opposition politicians launched a scathing attack on the Government last night during a Dail debate on the ongoing use of Shannon Airport by the US military in preparation for an apparently imminent war on Iraq.

TDs were debating a motion calling for the refuelling facilities to be withdrawn.

Independent Deputy Tony Gregory accused the Government of colluding with the United States for the past year in violation of Irish law.

However, Foreign Affairs Minister Brian Cowen denied that the US military use of Shannon breaches Irish neutrality.

The Taoiseach Bertie Ahern also pledged to review the situation if the US goes to war against Iraq without a specific mandate from the United Nations.