The Defence Minister is to meet with members of the next deployment of Irish troops to Syria today.

Alan Shatter will review the 44th Infantry Group at Stephens Barracks in Kilkenny this afternoon.

The Chief of Staff of the Defence Forces - Lieutenant General Conor O'Boyle - will also be present.

The 130 troops will travel to the war torn country for a six month tour of duty later this month.

They will be based in the Golan Heights region of Syria and will replace the 43rd Infantry Group.