120 armed soldiers to be deployed at Shannon

The Government has confirmed that 120 Irish soldiers will be deployed at Shannon to protect US military planes using the Co Clare airport.

The Cabinet made the decision following two alleged attacks on a US navy plane by peace protestors in the past week.

The protestors have insisted that the US military use of Shannon is illegal and a breach of Irish neutrality.

Defence Minister Michael Smith said the armed troops deployed at the airport will help gardai to secure the seven-mile perimeter fence.