Heavy garda presence as Bush's brother visits Dublin

A heavy garda presence has been put in place in Dublin city centre this morning for a visit by the younger brother of US President George W Bush.

Florida governor Jeb Bush has been invited to address a private lunch at the Conrad Hotel arranged by the American Chamber of Commerce.

He is also due to meet the Taoiseach at government buildings later to discuss US-Irish business ties.

A small group of anti-war protestors, including Deputy Lord Mayor Aodhaon O'Riordan, has gathered to mount a picket outside the hotel.

More than 60 gardaí have also been taking up positions in the area, out-numbering the demonstrators by two to one.

The protestors say Mr Bush is not just the governor of Florida, but also a leading "neo-conservative" who was an architect of the policy that led to the 2003 invasion of Iraq.

Mr O'Riordan says he is taking part because he firmly believes that Dubliners do not want Mr Bush visiting their city.