Always ready for action

Members of the defence forces have been deployed to south Lebanon to quell tensions. While their commander attests to their readiness for the mission, if violence escalates it could prevent a visit by President McAleese, writes Political Reporter Juno McEnroe in Tibnin.

THE head of the Irish army peacekeeping mission to Lebanon has said troops are ready for any conflict and are prepared for rioting and clashes similar to those experienced in recent weeks in the region of the war- torn country where they are based.

Preparations for any outbreak of violence come as consideration is being given to a formal visit by President Mary McAleese to south Lebanon in her final days before leaving office in November.