No reports of disturbances during march

Celebrations are taking place in Dublin and across Europe to mark the historic expansion of the European Union.

Ten new countries joined the EU at midnight in an enlargement that welcomes those states separated for decades by the Cold War.

Hundreds of demonstrators are now marching towards Farmleigh House in the Phoenix Park where leaders have gathered to mark the accession of the ten new member states.

Highly visible gardaí can be seen at every corner on in Dublin’s city centre this afternoon.

Hundreds of protestors are now making their way from Dame Street up to Heuston Station and then onto the Phoenix Park where leaders of 31 countries are gathering to celebrate 10 new member states joining the EU.

But protestors say gardaí are not being intrusive so far, but their presence is still unnecessary as they do not expect any trouble.

With the Phoenix Park closed people are anticipating that trouble is inevitable.