Peace process honour for Ahern

Former Taoiseach Bertie Ahern will be presented with an award to mark his contribution to the peace process at a gala dinner tonight.

Presented by Co-operation Ireland the prestigious accolade recognises the outstanding work of those who have worked to bring peace to the island.

Also attending the function at Trinity College Dublin will be Northern Ireland Secretary of State Shaun Woodward, British Ambassador to Ireland David Reddaway and Government Chief Whip Pat Carey.

“It is a fitting recognition of the contribution of the Irish Government under his leadership and his own very personal commitment to the peace process which has resulted in the Northern Ireland we have today,” said Co-operation Ireland Chairman Christopher Moran, who will present the award.

“I am delighted to present the Co-operation Ireland Peace Award to Bertie Ahern.”

Previous recipients include former US President Bill Clinton, former Northern Ireland Secretary of State Mo Mowlam, US Senator George Mitchell and the former head of the SDLP John Hume.

Taoiseach Brian Cowen was unable to attend the function but sent his congratulations to his predecessor.

“The Co-operation Ireland Peace Award recognises our great debt to him for all of his efforts and the great leadership he demonstrated in negotiating the ground-breaking Good Friday and St Andrew’s agreements,” Mr Cowen said.