Higgins leads tributes to ex-Finland president who played role in Northern Ireland peace process

Former president of Finland Martti Ahtisaari. Picture: Clive Gee/PA

President Michael D Higgins has led tributes from politicians following the death of the former president of Finland Martti Ahtisaari, who was one of a number of international mediators in the Northern Ireland peace process.

Mr Ahtisaari, who was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 2008, died on Monday aged 86.