Ten arrested at Shannon anti-war protests
Saturday, 1 March 2003 17:54
Ten people have been arrested, after minor scuffles at an anti-war demonstration at Shannon Airport.
Several hundred Gardaí were deployed around the airport amid fears of violence. The demonstrators split into two groups.
The arrests took place after one group, calling itself Direct Action, led up to 200 people up to the perimeter fence at the airport. Direct Action has said it would try to pull down part of the perimeter fence at the airport, in protest at the facility being used by American troops.
Following the threat, the Labour party, Sinn Fein and the Green Party indicated they would not be supporting the protest.
The Irish Anti-War Movement, who have organised the main Shannon march, say they want it to be completely peaceful.
The heavy Garda presence includes some officers in riot gear and others armed with guns.
In Dublin up to 150 people have attended an anti-war vigil outside the Department of Foreign Affairs this afternoon.
