20/04/2007

Lord Eames to receive peace award

Retired Church of Ireland primate Robin Eames is to be presented with the prestigious Tipperary International Peace Award.

Lord Eames, 69, will join a list of recipients of the award, including Nelson Mandela, and former US President Bill Clinton.

A Peace Forum in Ballykisteen on Friday will feature contributions from Senator Martin Mansergh, former MEP and Alliance leader John Cushnahan, civil rights campaigner Nell McCafferty and former SDLP MLA Sean Farren.

The former Archbishop of Armagh, Lord Eames led the Church of Ireland through some of the worst years of the Troubles in Northern Ireland and was also involved in the peace process. He retired on 31 December last year.

In a statement announcing him as recipient of the award, the Tipperary Peace Convention paid tribute to his courageous work and patient work on reconciliation in Northern Ireland.

Spokesman Martin Quinn also added: "He has commanded the trust and respect of very many people and has given imaginative and constructive leadership to the community in the North and throughout Ireland."

He continued: "His foresight, understanding, compassion and dignified counsel reassured many during periods of turmoil and trouble, both in Northern politics and in church affairs.

"He has been a ceaseless advocate for peace and reconciliation in Northern Ireland and his commitment to a peaceful new society where everyone is valued has been an inspiration to many."

(JM/KMcA)

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