Govt to fund Irish studies in Liverpool University

The Irish Government is to spend almost €7.5m to fund a Chair of Irish Studies at the University of Liverpool in honour of outgoing British Prime Minister Tony Blair.

The Taoiseach, Bertie Ahern, says the move is designed to honour Mr Blair's "unique contribution to the improvement of British-Irish relations".

The University of Liverpool has had an Institute of Irish Studies for the past 20 years.

Mr Ahern says the new funding, as well as establishing a Chair of Irish Studies, will also support several post-graduate studentships and an undergraduate programme in British and Irish politics.

Taoiseach Bertie Ahern pays tribute to British Prime Minister Tony Blair.