Battle of Boyne commemoration brings Paisley to the Republic

THE Battle of the Boyne site will today witness another milestone in Irish history as Ian Paisley makes his inaugural visit to the Republic as the North’s First Minister.

He and Taoiseach Bertie Ahern will commemorate the momentous clash which saw Protestant King William of Orange defeat Catholic King James.

Mr Ahern drew criticism from some opponents who accused him of trying to use the peace process for party gain in the General Election due to the symbolic nature of the Boyne event, coupled with the start of power sharing and next week’s address to the British parliament falling during the campaign.