London: Troops, police and ground-to-air
missiles have been deployed ahead of Queen Elizabeth II's
groundbreaking visit to Ireland.
Encouraged by the largely successful peace process in
Northern Ireland, which has made her sensitive visit feasible,
the queen will become the first British monarch to set foot in
the Republic of Ireland.
When a British sovereign last came, all of Ireland was
still part of the United Kingdom.
The monarch's presence is still resented by some in
Ireland who bristle at the legacy of British rule. Some have
predicted violent street clashes or a terrorist attack.
Security measures being put in place today include a
security detail to 8,500, armored cars, and air-defense
systems.
PTI
First Published: Monday, May 16, 2011, 18:33