Peace award for Mary and Martin McAleese

FORMER president Mary McAleese and her husband, Senator Martin McAleese have been announced as the joint recipients of the 2011 Tipperary International Peace Award.

Tipperary Peace Convention said it was delighted to recognise the efforts of Mary and Martin McAleese in the promotion of peace and reconciliation on the island of Ireland.

“The theme of Mary McAleese’s presidency was ‘Building Bridges’ and for many people, the highlight of her two terms as president was the visit of Queen Elizabeth to Ireland in March 2011, which undoubtedly was the culmination of President McAleese’s long and dedicated work for reconciliation,” it said.

“Along with her work for reconciliation she also used her time in office to address issues concerning justice, social equality, social inclusion and anti-sectarianism and her presidency has been a healing one for which this and future generations will be eternally grateful.”

Mary McAleese was assisted every step of the way in the work of promoting peace and reconciliation by her husband Martin.

He initiated a series of meetings with senior loyalist paramilitary leaders to pursue peace negotiations.

“These actions have been widely viewed as instrumental in bringing loyalist paramilitary groups to peace talks.

“The valuable work that he did in reaching out to people in the loyalist community enabled the development of a shared Ireland beyond violence and conflict,” the convention added.

The award will be presented in Tipperary at a date to be announced.