Taoiseach welcomes Pope’s comments on IRA statement

The Taoiseach has welcomed the Pope's good wishes for the Northern peace process following Thursday's IRA statement that its armed struggle is over.

Bertie Ahern said that Pope Benedict's comments are a reminder of the major contribution made by clergy of all traditions to the peace process.

Mr Ahern recalled the words of the Pope's predecessor to the IRA during his visit to Drogheda.

He said it was a matter of regret that John Paul II did not live to see, what he called "this potentially historic response to his appeal".