No turning back as leaders declare ‘killing times’ over

BERTIE AHERN’s final full day as taoiseach saw him witness Ian Paisley’s declaration that the “killing times” in the north were at an end.

In a carefully choreographed and deeply symbolic ceremony at the battle of the Boyne site, both leaders insisted tolerance had defeated violence across the religious divide.

Restoration work at the historic venue was rushed forward, so the Taoiseach and Mr Paisley, who steps down as first minister next month, could officiate at its opening before leaving office.