Blair to be honoured at gala dinner in Dublin

Former British prime minister Tony Blair will be honoured at a gala dinner tonight attended by outgoing Taoiseach Bertie Ahern and rockstar Bono.

The gathering in Dublin forms part of a series of events to mark the 10th anniversary of the Good Friday Agreement.

US Senator George Mitchell, former SDLP leader John Hume and Bob Geldof will also be among the more than 200 guests.

It is being organised by the Turn the Tide of Suicide group.

Speaking before the event Mr Ahern said: “It is particularly appropriate that we honour Tony Blair, his achievements and his huge personal commitment to the cause of peace in Northern Ireland as we mark the 10th anniversary of the Good Friday Agreement.

“I would like to thank the Turn the Tide of Suicide charity for providing an opportunity to formally acknowledge Tony Blair for all that he has done for peace on this island and I commend them for their important work in raising awareness and funding to lower suicide rates in Ireland through research, educational support and intervention.”

British Ambassador David Reddaway, American Ambassador Thomas C.Foley and former Attorney General David Byrne have also been invited.

Funds from the charity dinner will go to the organisation for a number of initiatives, including research support for an All-Ireland Suicide Survey as well as contributions to support services across Dublin and other centres.

Mr Ahern will present Mr Blair with a Guy Hanscomb painting titled 'Beach Scene, Brittas Bay'.

“We are privileged to be joined by the men who helped to bring about peace in Northern Ireland,” the charity’s chairman Noel Smyth said.

“We are also very conscious that the funds raised will help fund North/South research on suicide and depression and bring about a greater understanding of the pain that many individuals and families are forced to endure.”