Taoiseach: Ireland can benefit from London Olympics

The Taoiseach, Bertie Ahern, has said Ireland can benefit greatly from the London Olympics in 2012.

Mr Ahern was speaking at the opening ceremony of the European Olympic Committee's annual conference, which is being held in Dublin this weekend.

He told delegates from 47 countries that the London Olympics would give Ireland an opportunity to host international teams and their support staff, as well as family and friends.

"The fact that the Olympic Games are coming to London will have positive repercussions across these islands," he said.

"I'd like to assure my UK colleagues of any support or assistance that we can provide in the lead-up to the 2012 Games."