The election of Mr Pat Cox as President of the European Parliament was a wonderful achievement and showed that in the EU smaller countries did have a say, the Taoiseach said yesterday.
Congratulating the Independent MEP, Mr Ahern said he had worked tirelessly in Europe for all citizens. "His election was a tribute to his commitment to the European ideal, and his dedication to making the institutions of the European Union more accessible and accountable to its citizens".
The Tanaiste, Ms Harney, echoing similar sentiments, said that everyone could be very proud of Mr Cox's achievement.
"It is a great honour for an Irishman to lead the most representative parliament in the world. It also highlights the important role that representatives from smaller EU members-states can play in shaping Europe," Ms Harney said. She was delighted for Mr Cox, his wife, Cathy, and their six children.
"On behalf of the Progressive Democrats, I offer him our strong support on this special day; I offer him our strong support in his important work ahead."
The Taoiseach said Mr Cox's appointment reinforced the fact that small nations had a key role to play in Europe and could make significant contributions to European institutions.
"Too often we hear critics and euro-sceptics complain that Europe is run by the big nations for the big nations, and that smaller countries, such as Ireland, Greece or the Netherlands, have little say in the decision-making in European institutions.
"Today's election of Pat Cox as President of the European Parliament totally refutes that argument. In being elected, Pat has proved that not only can small nations succeed, but more importantly, that it is the person that matters in Europe. The ability of an individual to do a job is more relevant than where they come from."
The Fine Gael leader, Mr Michael Noonan, also said it showed what could be achieved by someone from a smaller member-state like Ireland.
The Labour leader, Mr Ruairí Quinn, whose party colleague, Mr Proinsias De Rossa MEP, voted for the opposing candidate, Mr David Martin, a Scottish MEP, said it was a significant election.
"The European Parliament was in the enviable position of having two outstanding candidates for the position of the Presidency in the election today," said Mr Quinn.
"While the Labour Party as members of the Socialist Group were committed to supporting David Martin, we nevertheless acknowledge the significance of the election of Pat Cox."
Labour disagreed with Mr Cox on many social issues, but no one disputed his commitment to the EU and its institutions.