George W Bush has been sworn in for a second term as the 43rd President of the United States.
In his inauguration speech, President Bush promised to press ahead with his global war on terror, declaring that the survival of liberty in the US increasingly depended on the success of liberty in other lands.
He pledged to use US diplomacy and might to spread democracy around the world and to eradicate tyranny.
It is estimated that over 100,000 people lined the streets surrounding the White House to watch the ceremony.
There were some peaceful protests against the President in different parts of the city. There was also a huge security presence with 6,000 police officers on the street backed up by over 7,000 military and secret service personnel.
In keeping with tradition, Mr Bush attended a prayer service in St John's Church, right across from the White House, before his inauguration.
St Patrick's Day ceremony changes
Separately, it has emerged that changes are being considered to the traditional St Patrick's Day ceremony at the White House.
It has been confirmed that the Taoiseach, Bertie Ahern, will meet the President and present the traditional bowl of shamrock.
However, according to a senior US government source ‘different options to take into consideration the current political context are being considered’.
