Anti-war group urges workers to protest

Irish workers are being asked to stage a countrywide walkout in the event of any attack on Iraq.

It is part of the escalated campaign by the Irish Anti-war Movement, which says more demonstrations are needed to get world politicians to listen to the people.

The increased action comes after EU leaders warned Iraq to disarm peacefully or risk war.

Group spokesman Richard Boyd Barrett wants Irish workers to down tools if the US begins to bomb Iraq.

"Here in Ireland we intend to hold a very large demonstration on March 1 at Shannon, but in the event of an attack we are going to be organising protests in every town and city across the country," he said.

"We are calling on people opposed to the war to stop what they are doing completely and bring the country to a standstill on midday following any attack."