Ireland marks 50th anniversary of UN membership

The Government and the Defence Forces are today marking the 50th anniversary of Ireland's membership of the United Nations.

Irish soldiers have been involved in 58 UN peacekeeping missions since the country joined the organisation in 1955.

Eighty-five troops have lost their lives during these overseas missions.

The 50th anniversary is being marked by Defence Minister Willie O'Dea and the Chief of Staff of the Defence Forces at a special commemoration event in Dublin's McKee Barracks today.