"Two people have been arrested in connection with public order offences," the spokesman said.

About 400 anti-war activists staged a sit-down at the Kildare Street entrance of the Dail, or lower house of parliament.

They were protesting against the Iraq war and the continued use of Ireland's Shannon Airport to transit and refuel US troop-carrying aircraft on their way to the Gulf and bombing missions in Iraq.

Riot police were brought in to clear a way for legislators leaving parliament by car.

Amongst those lifted out of the way by police was the Socialist Party's only MP, Joe Higgins, who is a strong opponent of the war.

SPACE.WIRE