Golan Heights soldiers due home to Ireland

Irish troops who came under fire during a tour of duty in the Golan Heights, are returning home to their families tonight.

The 44th Infantry group completed a six month tour of duty in the disputed territory, during which they came under fire while trying to rescue their Filipino colleagues from a beleaguered post.

A new contingent of Irish troops are flying out to replace them - they'll be stationed in the Israeli side of the demilitarised zone.

Defence Minister Simon Coveney described the actions of the Irish forces in the Golan Heights as "nothing short of heroic."