Presidential couple to get peace work honour

President Mary McAleese and her husband Martin will tomorrow be conferred with honorary doctorates to mark their contribution to the Northern peace process.

The ceremony at Dublin City University (DCU) coincides with the 10th anniversary of the Good Friday Agreement.

The joint award will recognise the President’s and Dr McAleese’s reconciliation efforts in the North.

DCU President Professor Ferdinand von Prondzynski said: “DCU is delighted to honour the very significant role played by the President and her husband Martin, often with little public attention, in helping to overcome the legacy of decades of violent conflict in Northern Ireland.

“Their efforts at developing cross-community commitment to building a peaceful society has assisted a process that is transforming life on this island, helping to heal the many deep wounds of the past, and opening up great potential for the future.”

The President will also be honoured for her distinguished academic career at both Queen’s University Belfast and Trinity College Dublin.

At Trinity President McAleese served as Reid Professor of Criminal Law, Criminology and Penology and at Queen’s was appointed Pro Vice Chancellor.