The European Union (EU) has approved a military mission to the Central African Republic (CAR). French troops are already trying to keep peace in the troubled African state.

Conflict has escalated in the CAR with almost one million people fleeing the violence. Reports say Foreign Ministers have agreed to send up to 1,000 soldiers over to the Republic.

US$500 million (€368 million) in aid has been pledged for the CAR by the international community.

Instability in the Central African Republic has resulted in inter-communal violence.

Reuters says Estonia has promised soldiers, while Lithuania, Slovenia, Finland, Belgium, Poland and Sweden are among countries considering sending troops. But large EU states such as the UK, Germany and Italy have ruled out sending troops.

Meanwhile Irish involvement in that mission looks unlikely.

Speaking in Brussels this morning, the Tanaiste Eamon Gilmore ruled any such role in an EU mission.