Archbishop Eames on visit to troops in Iraq

The head of the Church of Ireland is visiting Irish troops serving with the British army in Iraq.

Archbishop Robin Eames is on a three-day trip with the first battalion of the Royal Irish Regiment in the south of the country.

The regiment - which includes soldiers from both the North and the Republic - began its tour of duty in July.

Dr Eames, who is meeting chaplains and soldiers, will also visit a field hospital.

The Archbishop of Armagh and Primate says he accepted the invitation in order to offer pastoral support to troops who'll be away from their families this year.