Praise for Ahern following resignation

Gordon Brown has praised Bertie Ahern's "historic contribution" to the Northern Ireland peace process following his announcement that he would stand down as taioseach in May.

Wednesday's news comes amid controversy over Ahern's personal finances, who has launched a court challenge to limit a public inquiry into planning corruption in the 1990s.

Ahern, the leader of the Fianna Fáil party and Ireland's prime minister since 1997, denied any wrongdoing.

"The priority I put above all others was to work for peace on this island, and I have given all to that cause," he said.

"I know in my heart of hearts I have done no wrong and wronged no-one.

"My decision is motivated by what is best for the people. It is a personal decision.

"I will not allow issues related to my own person to dominate the people and the body politic."

"While I will be the first to admit that I've made mistakes in my life and in my career, one mistake I've never made was to enrich myself by misusing the trust of the people.

"I have never received a corrupt payment and I've never done anything to dishonour any office that I've ever held."

He added: "The Good Friday agreement now provides the political framework for the island to meet its full political potential."

'Contribution'

Brown commended the work of his Irish counterpart, saying: "I heard with great regret the news today of Bertie Ahern's decision to stand down next month as taioseach.

"Bertie Ahern has been an outstanding statesman, and has made an historic contribution in helping to bring peace to Northern Ireland, transforming Ireland's relationship with the UK, and playing a key role in the development of a forward looking and dynamic Europe. 

"The UK could not have had a better partner. I wish him and his family well. We look forward to working with his successor towards continued peace and prosperity in both our countries."

Sinn Fein president Gerry Adams said Ahern "is justifiably proud of the fact that he was the taoiseach who was in place and who, with the British prime minister and the rest of us, brought about the Good Friday agreement and he deserves our thanks for that".

SDLP leader Mark Durkan said his party wanted "to reflect today on Bertie Ahern's positive record".

"When he came to office he inherited the peace process and the talks process and ensured that their opportunity for all the people of Ireland was maximised," Durkan said.

"In the distressing personal circumstances of his mother's death he was focused and masterful in the final negotiations of the Good Friday agreement. His commitment to the north has been shown in his constant involvement either in implementing the agreement or in initiatives to secure its implementation.

"Bertie Ahern can be proud not just of his own achievements in office in Ireland and Europe but also of the achievements he has helped to make possible for others and, in the future, for all of us."