Ahern speech to mark Good Friday deal anniversary

Taoiseach Bertie Ahern is to make a major speech in Dublin this week to mark the 10th anniversary of the signing of the Good Friday Agreement.

The Taoiseach is to address a UCD conference on Thursday, organised by the Institute of British Irish Studies, with Northern Ireland Secretary of State Shaun Woodward.

Mr Ahern will also host former British prime minister Tony Blair and ex-US Senator George Mitchell – two key figures in the Agreement talks in 1998 – in Dublin next week.

Speaking before the UCD conference, From Conflict To Consensus – The Legacy Of The Good Friday Agreement, Mr Ahern said today that the 10th anniversary gives a valuable opportunity to reflect on dramatic political progress made across the island.

“The Good Friday Agreement was a momentous milestone in the history of Ireland.

“The 10th anniversary of the signing of the Agreement provides a valuable opportunity to reflect on the enormous progress made since 1998 and the future of relations on these islands,” he said.

Mr Ahern will host Mr Blair and Mr Mitchell at a Dublin Castle event on April 11 organised by the Turn The Tide of Suicide (3Ts) group.

Funds raised from the dinner will go to a number of North/South initiatives, including research support for an all-Ireland suicide survey as well as contributions to support centres across Dublin.