Thousands of protesters are expected to march through Dublin this evening as part of the international Make Poverty History campaign.
There is pressure on the Government to meet the Taoiseach’s promise to allocate 0.7 per cent of GNP to foreign aid, and with, the Live 8 concerts on this weekend, organisers are confident the high profile of the issue will lead to a large turnout.
As many as 20,000 people may attend the rally, which begins at 6.30pm at Parnell Square and will march to Merrion Square arriving at about 7.15pm.
The musical line-up at the Dublin rally will include Kíla, Mundy, the Devlins, the Walls and the Hothouse Flowers.
With an eye on the summit in near Edinburgh this weekend, there will be a strong Scottish theme with kilts worn, pipers and an effigy of the Loch Ness monster.