Anti-war protesters ready to greet Australian premier

Anti-war protests are likely to greet the Prime Minister of Australia when he pays an official visit to Ireland later this month.

John Howard’s first trip to the country will focus on strengthening the historically close relationship between Australia and Ireland, with particular emphasis on economic relations, an Irish Government statement said.

The Prime Minister will hold talks with Taoiseach Bertie Ahern and address the Dáil as part of his official programme on Tuesday May 23.

Mr Howard will also meet with a number of key figures from the Ireland-Australia business community.

During the visit, Mr Howard will be discussing regional and international issues of interest to both countries with Mr Ahern and other members of Government.

This is the first visit by the Australian Prime Minister to Ireland since 1993.

Mr Howard flies to Ireland following a five-day US visit where he will be honoured with a state dinner by President George Bush.

Mr Howard has committed Australian troops to Iraq and he and Mr Bush have forged close links since the September 11, 2001, attacks on the US.

The Irish Anti-War Movement tonight confirmed that protests at Mr Howard’s visit were likely.

Spokesman Richard Boyd-Barrett added: “This is the first we heard of this but it will be very likely that the Irish Anti-War Movement will mount a protest in opposition to the role the Australian government has played in the occupation in Iraq.

“Mr Howard may also be under pressure, along with Tony Blair of Britain, to support any US action against Iran.”