Irish deputy prime minister (Tanaiste), Eamon Gilmore, said that like most people in Ireland his immediate concern was for the Pope's health.
BBC: Pope Benedict XVI
2.
Tanaiste Mary Harney said David Trimble's refusal to authorise the attendance at cross-border meetings of Sinn Fein was incompatible with the Good Friday Agreement.
BBC: PMs discuss NI peace process
3.
Tanaiste (deputy prime minister) Eamon Gilmore said the industrial action was not good for the travelling public, not good for the company and not good for employees.
BBC: Strike affects Bus Eireann cross-border services