The President and the Taoiseach tonight paid tribute to Pope John Paul. Mrs McAleese said the influence of the Pope on the history of his beloved native country and on European history is already evident.
The President said 'today marks the ending of an extraordinary life which in its mourning must also be celebrated.'
Mrs McAleese said 'For over a generation, Pope John Paul II was a pillar of the modern world, serving the Catholic Church and the cause of all humanity. He continued the work of his predecessors in interpreting and implementing the Second Vatican Council, that milestone in the long history of the church.'
She said the story of Pope John Paul II is that of a man of immense faith and conviction and, in latter years, great personal courage.
The Taoiseach said John Paul was a towering figure in the story of our time. Mr Ahern said he had played a decisive role in the peaceful re-integration of Europe, ending decade of division and oppression.
He said he was tireless in the causes of peace, reconciliation, as well as equitable and sustainable development.
Mr Ahern added that John Paul's moving appeal for peace during his visit to Drogheda in 1979 played no small part in the development of the framework for peace on this island.
He said he doubted if the huge changes that had occurred in Eastern Europe would have happened without him.
