On the day Bertie Ahern announced his resignation from the office of Taoiseach, Kildare's Fianna Fail TDs have paid tribute to the leader of their party.
"Peace in Northern Ireland and a stable Assembly is the great legacy of Taoiseach Bertie Ahern", said Kildare North Fianna Fail T.D. Áine Brady, "...Bertie Ahern played an integral part in bringing the peace process to fruition delivering on his objective to see a stable administration based on the power-sharing model take root in Northern Ireland. It brought about a new way of life in Northern Ireland that many thought they would never see."
Deputy Michael Fitzpatrick said "Mr Ahern has served the country well for many years and has played a crucial role in the success that Ireland is experiencing today, with his endless commitment to achieving economic success and peace on this island."
Fianna Fáil TD for Kildare South, Sean Ó Feargháil added "An Taoiseach Bertie Ahern TD has served the country's interests with a commitment and drive unequalled by anyone of his political generation. He became Ireland's youngest Taoiseach in June 1997 and is now one of Ireland's longest serving leaders."
"He led the country to a period of peace and prosperity never before enjoyed in Ireland. In Kildare we have seen the fruits of that labour in unprecedented infrastructural improvements, in educational advancements, and increases in employment."
Taoiseach Bertie Ahern announced today that he will tender his resignation to President Mary McAleese on 6th May.