PM praises retiring Paisley

5 March 2008

Gordon Brown has praised Ian Paisley's "huge contribution to political life" after the veteran Northern Irish politician announced his retirement plans yesterday.

In a Downing Street statement Gordon Brown said:

"Ian Paisley has made a huge contribution to political life in Northern Ireland and the United Kingdom. The whole country values and admires the manner in which he has led as First Minister.

"His commitment and dedication to public service deserve our gratitude. Progress on bringing a lasting peace to Northern Ireland would not have been possible without his immense courage and leadership.

"We will continue to work with the parties to deliver the shared future for Northern Ireland to which he contributed so much."

Mr Paisley intends to leave his position as First Minister of the Northern Ireland Assembly in May. The 81-year-old, whose career has spanned five decades, will also step down as leader of the Democratic Unionist Party. He will remain an MP and Assembly member for North Antrim.

• Visit the Northern Ireland Assembly website (new window)

Image copyright: Reuters