Honorary graduation

Bertie Ahern and Tony Blair have been honoured by Queen’s University for their key roles in bringing peace to Northern Ireland.

During a special graduation ceremony, which marked the beginning of the two-day Mitchell conference, the former premiers were recognised for their distinction in public service and their roles in the peace process.

Click here to watch Senator George Mitchell’s citation
Watch Senator George Mitchell’s citation
Click here to watch Tony Blair’s acceptance speech
Watch Tony Blair’s acceptance speech
Click here to watch Bertie Ahern’s acceptance speech
Watch Bertie Ahern’s acceptance speech
A quiet word before the ceremony
Vice-Chancellor Professor Peter Gregson and Tony Blair make their way to the ceremony
Tony Blair with his degree and Professor Peter Gregson
Dr Tony Blair
Former Taoieseach Bertie Ahern is led into the Whitla Hall by Queen’s Chancellor Senator George Mitchell and his page, Becky Colquhoun
Senator George Mitchell delivers his joint citation
Tony Blair’s appearance was by video link, recorded in his London office last month
Congratulating the former Prime Minister on his doctorate is Vice-Chancellor Professor Peter Gregson
Bertie Ahern receives his honorary degree from Professor Peter Gregson
Dr Bertie Ahern with Senator George Mitchell and Professsor Peter Gregson
© 2008 Queen's University Belfast, University Road, Belfast, BT7 1NN