Irish honours list - We should be able to say thank you

IT is to be welcomed that Edward Kennedy, one of the longest-serving American senators and a Democratic Party patriarch, is to receive an honorary knighthood from Queen Elizabeth. The honour is one of the highest that country can bestow.

Sen Kennedy’s lifelong contribution to democratic principles has been exemplary and has had a profound and lasting impact, even on this side of the Atlantic. His commitment to progress was most recently seen when he pledged his support to Barack Obama long, long before it was likely — much less certain — that Mr Obama would be elected President of America.

His contribution to the lasting peace being enjoyed on this island today was of the highest significance. His patience and determination, probably facilitated by his remove from the murderous horrors of the conflict, kept powerful men’s doors open and the agenda active even during that darkest days of that conflict.