The Taoiseach has paid tribute to former Ulster Unionist leader David Trimble for the critical role he played in the negotiations that led to the Good Friday Agreement.
Michael Martin told an audience in Queen’s University in Belfast that the level of personal bravery required "was under-appreciated at the time and should not be allowed to be forgotten."
The Fianna Fáil leader was delivering the inaugural Lord Trimble Lecture.
"As we look back on Irish and British history over the last 60 years, there is absolutely no doubt that David Trimble is a figure of great significance," he said.
"I would argue that he's also a figure who we should do more to remember and understand, irrespective of the tradition you feel connected to, or indeed, if you feel no connection to any, there is much to be learned from his passionate, committed and consequential life. "
The Taoiseach said Mr Trimble had sought to both represent his community and to respond to the need to find some way forward.
Michael Martin added: "He was a man of sincere belief, who at the toughest of moments, showed a level of personal political bravery which was under appreciated at the time and should not be allowed to be forgotten.
"The greatest respect which we can pay to an important figure such as David is to recognize the importance of his life by engaging with its substance."
