Labour conference prepares for protests

A number of protests are to take place outside the Labour Party's centenary conference in Galway today.

Around 1,000 delegates are expected at the event, with debates on jobs, the economy, health and education, and even a motion to decide whether to hold a special conference next year to stay in Government will be debated.

Outside turf cutters, septic-tank owners, those opposed to the Household Charge and those opposed to the use of Shannon by American military for refuelling intend to make their voices heard.

Tánaiste Eamon Gilmore will deliver his keynote speech to the gathering at 8.30pm tonight.