Chad deployment postponed due to security fears

The first group of Irish soldiers due to be deployed in the central African nation of Chad remain in barracks this morning after their mission was abruptly postponed last night.

Fifty-four members of the Irish Army Rangers were due to depart from Dublin Airport to take part in an EU peacekeeping operation.

However, their departure was cancelled at the last minute after rebel troop movements force the closure of Chad's main airport in N'Djamena.

Their aircraft remain on standby this morning, but it is unclear when the deployment will go ahead.

The Defence Forces say the situation will be reviewed throughout the day.