Barack Obama lands in Ireland at start of European tour

US President Barack Obama has landed in the Republic of Ireland at the start of a week-long tour of Europe.

The president will also visit the UK, France and Poland. In France, he will attend a meeting of the Group of Eight (G8) major world powers.

Security will be tight following the US raid that killed Osama Bin Laden in Pakistan three weeks ago.

After arriving in Dublin, President Obama will meet Irish President Mary McAleese and then hold talks with Taoiseach Enda Kenny.

Later, the US leader, together with First Lady Michelle Obama, will visit the village of Moneygall, Co Offaly, which was the home of his great-great-great grandfather on his mother's side, Falmouth Kearney.

A huge security operation has been put in place around the village.

Moneygall, which only has 300 residents, has covered its main street in stars and stripes and prepared a warm welcome for President Obama in the village pub.

Back in Dublin, President Obama will deliver an open-air speech on College Green.