Taoiseach pays tribute to John Hume

The Taoiseach has paid tribute in the Dáil to former SDLP leader John Hume.

Mr Hume, who was one of the key architects of the Belfast Peace Agreement, is to retire from the Westminster and European Parliaments.

Bertie Ahern said: "Throughout his time in the European parliament, John has always worked with his Northern Ireland MEPs across the political divide to put the interests of the people of Northern Ireland and the people of this island first.

"He was central to securing the support of the European Union to the peace process.

"He was a great European who believed strongly in the European project."