A FORMER President of Ireland and First Minister of Northern Ireland are among those up for this year’s Tipperary International Peace Award.
Mary Robinson, the Republic’s first female president, and Peter Robinson, the outgoing leader of the North of Ireland, have both been named on the shortlist ahead of the official winner announcement in the coming days.
Ms Robinson was elected to the President’s office in 1990, serving until 1997, when Mary McAleese took over.
“She is widely regarded as a transformative figure for Ireland, and for the Irish presidency, revitalising and liberalising a previously conservative, low-profile political office,” Ms Robinson’s citation says.
Peter Robinson’s contribution to devolution in the North of Ireland was cited as the main reason he has been shortlisted.
Mr Robinson held the office of First Minister since 2008 – and announced his retirement last year.
He is set to be replaced by fellow DUP politician Arlene Foster.
Mr Robinson’s overseeing of the devolution of policing and justice powers from Westminster to the Northern Ireland Assembly with Martin McGuinness, as well as negotiating a power-sharing deal with Sinn Féin, earned him his shortlisted place.
Joining the Irish hopefuls on the list is former Israeli President Shimon Peres, German Chancellor Angela Merkel, US political John Kerry and humanitarian Chris Catrambone and his wife Regina.
The award winner will join several past recipients over the years, including Bob Geldof, Bill Clinton and 2012 recipient Malala Yousafzai.
The winner will be announced in the coming days - and the award will be presented later this year.
