A new opinion poll shows that a majority of Irish people oppose the use of Shannon Airport by US troops on their way to a war in Iraq, even if there is a UN resolution supporting action against Saddam Hussein.
And according to the MRBI poll in The Irish Times tomorrow, in the event of unilateral American action without a UN mandate, the use of Shannon is opposed by a three to one margin.
This poll was carried out on Monday and Tuesday, and therefore doesn't take account of the latest developments at the UN Security Council.
But even before the second report from Hans Blix, the findings are stark.
Even if there is a second Security Council resolution mandating action against Iraq, 49% of those questioned opposed the use of Shannon by U.S. troops on their way to the gulf.
42% were in favour, and 9% didn't know.
And if the US takes action without the backing of the United Nations, 68% oppose the use of Shannon, with just 21% in favour, and 11% who had no opinion.
UNSCOM reports to the UNSC
Bishop calls for anti-war march support
The Bishop of Clonfert has called on all Catholics to join the anti-war demonstration in Dublin tomorrow to show the Government how opposed they are to any war against Iraq.
Dr John Kirby, who is also the head of the Trócaire aid agency, said that if there is a unilateral attack on Iraq without UN approval, the Irish Government should withdraw all co-operation with the US military at Shannon.
Dr Kirby insisted he was not anti-American or pro-Saddam Hussein, but said it is important that ordinary people express their views on the proposed war.
Tomorrow's march will start in Parnell Square at 2pm.
World wide rallies start
Millions of people are expected to take to the streets of towns and cities across the globe at the weekend in the biggest peace protests since the Vietnam war.
In Melbourne 100,000 people kicked off the demonstrations which will spread to some 600 towns and cities stretching from Antarctica to Iceland.
Men, women and children joined in the Melbourne protest chanting anti-war slogans and waving banners that read: 'No blood for oil', 'Don't bomb Iraq', and 'We are all one'.
The main target of the demonstration was U.S. President George W. Bush and his thrust for war, but it was also directed at Australian Prime Minister John Howard who has joined British Prime Minister Tony Blair in committing troops.
