Cowen announces Burundi contribution

The Minister for Foreign Affairs, Brian Cowen, has announced that Ireland will contribute to the 'African Mission In Burundi' peacekeeping force.

Half a million euro will be given to the peace keeping force, in response to an appeal made by UN Secretary General Kofi Annan to other UN members.

Mr Cowen has said that it was a clear demonstration of Ireland's commitment as EU President to advancing the peace process in Burundi.