Message to His Excellency, Mr. Kofi Annan, Secretary-General of the United Nations
I have been deeply shocked by the criminal carnage visited today on the United Nations headquarters in Baghdad and by the death of your Special Representative, the distinguished Sergio Vieira de Mello as well as numerous other United Nations personnel.
I greatly sympathise with you in the loss of so many friends and United Nations colleagues who have given their lives in the highest calling, the service of humanity in the cause of peace.
At this sad moment, I would like you to be assured, Secretary-General, that the Government and people of Ireland are with you and your colleagues and will remain strong and constant in their support of the United Nations in the face of attacks that it may face from whatever quarter.
With my renewed condolences and warm personal regards.
Bertie Ahern, T.D.
Taoiseach
19th August, 2003