Tributes as Robinson to leave UN post
The Taoiseach has paid tribute to Mary Robinson after her announcement this morning that she will not be seeking a further term as UN High Commissioner for Refugees.
Bertie Ahern said Mrs Robinson brought leadership, energy and independence to the post, which she took up in 1997.
Mrs Robinson had already extended her term by one year at the request of Secretary General Kofi Annan.
However, it is believed that the US was against her staying on any longer because of her criticisms of the bombing campaign in Afghanistan and American treatment of al Qaida prisoners in Cuba.
