Hundreds of people gathered at Dublin Castle this evening to protest against the Chinese government as the country’s premier Mr Zhu Rongji arrived for a diplomatic visit.
Eggs were thrown at vehicles carrying the Chinese president’s 100-strong entourage as it entered the castle gates and chants of "Chinese government hear us say, human rights are here to stay" rang out.
Amnesty International representatives, Falun Gong practitioners and Free Tibet supporters were among a group which marched from Trinity College in protest.
Signs held high read: "Free Zhao Ming". Mr Ming was a post-graduate student at Trinity College, but has been imprisoned in a Chinese labour camp for the past year for practicing Falun Gong.
According to a formal letter of protest from the Falun Dafa - the Irish branch of the Falun Gong - handed to the premier earlier today, sanctions against the organisation by the Chinese government has left 272 dead.
Speaking after talks with the Taoiseach at the State guest house, Farmleigh, in the Phoenix Park earlier today Mr Zhu justified the Chinese government’s sanctions and said: "Falun Gong is not a religion. It is an evil cult which harms people. So the government has to protect the interests of the people and take legal actions."
But Mr Ahern has said the Chinese premier today committed to raising the issue of Zhao Ming with the Chinese judicial authorities.