TDs plan boycott of Howard's Dáil address

Up to six TDs are planning to boycott the address of Australian Prime Minister John Howard to the Dáil later today.

Half a dozen deputies, including Socialist Party leader Joe Higgins, have organised their action because of Australia’s support for the war in Iraq.

Mr Howard has also been criticised for his hardline stance against immigrants and his alleged exploitation of East Timor's oil and natural gas resources.

Mr Howard, who completes a three-day official visit to Ireland today, said he was unconcerned at the protest.

He said: “I would say to them isn’t it terrific to celebrate the joy of democracy? And part of the joy of democracy is the right to peaceful and lawful dissent.”

“The Irish brought many things to Australia, and one of them was dissent."

Anti-war groups may also hold a rally outside Leinster House before Mr Howard addresses the Dáil chamber. Several other protest groups are also planning demonstrations.

Dublin TD Mr Higgins also criticised recent Australian legislation on worker’s rights, and accused the country of stealing oil and gas from poor communities in East Timor.

Mr Howard, who claims Irish ancestry, will also today pay a courtesy visit on President Mary McAleese at Áras an Uachtaráin.