In one of the largest demonstrations in Irish history, over 100,000 people marched in Dublin today against the Bush administration's rush to war on Iraq. Protestors from every part of Ireland representing hundreds of groups came to Dublin to voice their opposition to war and to the continued use of Shannon Airport by the US military.

From opposition politicians to anarchists and Fianna-Fail-voting grannies, the crowds were diverse, cheerful, creative and peaceful as the sunshine encouraged an almost carnival atmosphere.

As usual, estimates of the numbers of protestors varied widely with Gardaí reporting 80,000 participants, mainstream media reporting 100,000 and the Irish Anti-War Movement and other organisers reporting 150,000. In any event, it was clearly one of the largest demonstrations in Irish history.

Smaller demonstrations were also held in cities and towns around the country, including Cork, Sligo and Belfast where over 30,000 marched against the war. The Irish protests were part of a global day of action against war that saw tens of millions of people protest worldwide.