“It was his sense of fairness and decency that resulted in him being called upon, together with Fr Gerry Reynolds and Fr Alex Reid, to help in bringing about the negotiations that led to the IRA ceasefire,” said President Higgins.

The importance of locating economic policy within a framework of social values that could create and sustain social cohesion came to the fore in discussions.

Decade of Commemorations presents a vital opportunity for every part of the Church on this island, not only to remember the past, but to create and shape the future.

Service marks the Armistice between the Allies and the Germans in 1918 and those who lost their lives in that conflict and any other conflict.

On behalf of the Irish people, President pays tribute to the “courageous” health workers, doctors and nurses, battling to contain the virus.