The Taoiseach and the President have sent their condolences to Britain's Queen Elizabeth on the death of her younger sister, Princess Margaret. The Princess, aged 71, had suffered two strokes in the last three years.
President McAleese said that her thoughts and prayers were with Queen Elizabeth and her family.
Bertie Ahern said: "On my own behalf and on behalf of my Cabinet colleagues, I wish to convey our deepest condolences on the death of Her Royal Highness Princess Margaret. Please accept our deepest sympathy on your sad loss."
Princess Margaret's funeral is set to take place next Friday. It will not be a state occasion.
