Minister Ahern represents Ireland at State funeral of Sir Edmund Hillary

Minister for Innovation Policy, Michael Ahern T.D. today (Tuesday 22^nd January 2008) represented Ireland at the State funeral of the late Sir Edmund Hillary who died in New Zealand earlier this month.

Ireland is one of only six countries that have been invited by the New Zealand Government to send a representative to the State funeral. Other countries invited include the U.K., U.S.A., Australia, India and Nepal.

Speaking in New Zealand Minister Ahern said: “I am honoured to represent the Government of Ireland at the funeral of one of New Zealand’s greatest national heroes and the provider one of the Twentieth Century’s most defining moments. As the first man to stand on the top of Mount Everest it is truly fitting that this great New Zealander should also be the first person not a serving Prime Minister or Governor General to be accorded a State funeral”.

“Since his death the world has mourned the passing of one of the world’s greatest adventurers of all time. When he conquered Everest he provided me and a whole generation with one of the most memorable moments in our lifetime. He was an inspirational figure for so many and stands alongside such greats as Scott, Shakelton, our own great Tom Crean”, the Minister added.

While in New Zealand Minister Ahern will meet with the Honourable Pete Hodgson, Minister for Economic Development, Tertiary Education and Research, Science and Development and Technology. The Minister will also take the opportunity to meet with members of the Irish Business Community.