The Taoiseach has said that while he would like to see all countries participating in the Special Olympics, the Government had to be guided by the expert group in relation to the possible threat of SARS.
Bertie Ahern was speaking to reporters at a ceremony in Dublin this morning where Newbridge, County Kildare, was presented with the top award of host town for the forthcoming Special Olympics.
Mr Ahern said that the final decision would have to be left to the special expert group and the advice coming from the World Health Organisation.
Meanwhile, Hong Kong is continuing to hold talks with Irish officials to urge the Government to reconsider its decision to ban the territory from the Olympics.
Hong Kong's Home Affairs Secretary said authorities were maintaining direct dialogue with Ireland.
