Ahern steps down

Taoiseach Bertie Ahern officially stepped down from office tonight after tendering his resignation to Irish president Mary McAleese at her Aras an Uachtarain residence in Dublin.

Taoiseach Bertie Ahern officially stepped down from office tonight after tendering his resignation to President Mary McAleese at her Áras an Uachtaráin residence in Dublin.

Mr Ahern, who has served 11 years, announced last month that he would be leaving his position amid a deepening crisis surrounding his personal finances.