Anti-war protestors take to the streets

Up to 1,500 protesters marched through Dublin today to demonstrate against the American occupation of Iraq, Gardaí said.

Crowds gathered in Parnell Square and made their way across the River Liffey and up to government buildings.

A retired army commandant returned military medals awarded to him by the Defence Forces and the United Nations in protest at what he described as Ireland’s role in the Iraqi war.

The demonstration was led by the Peace and Neutrality Alliance, the Anti War Movement and the NGO Peace Alliance.

Organisers said they were also opposed to sending any Irish troops to help the occupation of Iraq, even under a UN mandate.

Gardaí said the protest was peaceful and no arrests were made.