Ahern's tribute to primate ahead of cardinal ceremony

Taoiseach Bertie Ahern has paid tribute to Archbishop Sean Brady just hours ahead of his appointment to the College of Cardinals in Rome today.

The Catholic Primate and Archbishop of Armagh will be installed at a ceremony in the Vatican.

The 68-year-old will be become the third Cardinal on the island of Ireland when Pope Benedict XVI honours senior churchmen with the traditional red hat.

“Archbishop Sean Brady is fully deserving of the honour which Pope Benedict will bestow upon him,” said Mr Ahern in advance of the ceremony in St. Peter’s Square.

“As Primate of All Ireland, he has exercised his pastoral care in a thoughtful, modest but always compassionate manner.”

President Mary McAleese, Minister for Foreign Affairs Dermot Ahern, Progressive Democrat Noel Grealish, and Green Party Senator Deirdre de Burca have gathered at the Vatican for the consistory event.

Northern Ireland’s Deputy First Minister Martin McGuinness and Secretary of State Shaun Woodward will also attend the service.

Mr Ahern paid tribute to Archbishop’s particular leadership role in Northern Ireland and his tireless work on behalf of peace and reconciliation.

He also recalled that Pope Benedict had, on a number of occasions, referred to the importance for the world of the success of the peace process in Northern Ireland. “Archbishop Sean Brady’s role, especially in partnership with the leaders of the other Christian denominations, has played no small part in the message of hope which the Northern Ireland peace process represents,” the Taoiseach said.

Mr Ahern extended his best wishes to Archbishop Brady for the future of his ministry in Armagh and in the service of the Church generally.