Ging to receive special Front Line award in Dublin

Irishman John Ging is due to receive a special Front Line award in Dublin today in recognition of his work with the Palestinian population in Gaza.

Mr Ging has been the director of the UN relief agency in Gaza since 2006 and was a prominent voice on behalf of the Palestinian people during Israel's bombardment of the territory in January.

Front Line is an international organisation set up in Dublin eight years ago to protect people who are at risk of persecution for defending human rights.

Its main award this year is going to Guatemalan human rights defender Dr Yuri Melini, who is still recovering after an assassination attempt last September.

Actor Martin Sheen is in Dublin this morning to present the award.