Taoiseach to discuss Asian relief effort

The Taoiseach, Bertie Ahern, is due to meet representatives of Irish aid agencies this afternoon to discuss efforts to help the victims of the Asian tsunami disaster.

The charities are expected to ask Mr Ahern to send Irish soldiers to the region to help with relief efforts.

However, the Government is expected to say that it is waiting for a request from the United Nations before sending any soldiers.

Speaking ahead of today's talks, GOAL chief executive John O' Shea said military forces were needed to oversee the logistics of the relief operation.

Fine Gael spokesman Billy Timmins, meanwhile, said the Government should consider despatching Irish troops with specialist skills who could help to rebuild communities and provide medical care.