The legislation needed to pardon the soldiers who deserted the Irish army during World War II is expected to be passed today.

Around 100 of the 7,000 soldiers who left the forces are still alive.

When the second World War broke out in 1939, the Irish Army had 42,000 soldiers in its ranks.

Over the next few years, around 5,000 of them deserted to fight with the Allies against Germany and Japan.

A further 2,000 troops simply left.

Many were apprehended and brought before military courts upon their return.

They were dismissed and their names blackened in the eyes of the public.

In the years that followed, those named and shamed were refused jobs in the public service for seven years.

But today, an amnesty and immunity Bill is expected to become law, in what the Justice Minister Alan Shatter says is recognition of the courage of those who fought for the allies.

Only a small fraction of those affected are still alive but Minister Shatter says it's still important to acknowledge their bravery and the role they played in seeking to ensure a free and safe Europe.

The move will amount to an historic apology.

Alan Shatter says the Bill will go some way to righting the wrongs of the past.