Bertie Ahern (Dublin Central, Fianna Fail)

Before I read the Order of Business, it has just been announced in Rome that Archbishop Seán Brady has been nominated by Pope Benedict XVI to the College of Cardinals. On behalf of the Government, I extend my warmest congratulations to Archbishop Brady. In honouring Archbishop Brady, Pope Benedict has acknowledged the transformation that has occurred in Northern Ireland. The success of the peace process and the restoration of devolved administration has been, as the Holy Father has publicly acknowledged, a sign of hope for all those across the world who struggle for peace and reconciliation in the face of violence and civil strife. I think everybody in this House will acknowledge that the archbishop has for many decades been to the fore in working across his community for peace in Northern Ireland. This is a very special day for him and I acknowledge that.

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