MARYLAND'S governor Martin O'Malley has paid tribute to Taoiseach Bertie Ahern, describing him as one of the most dynamic and accomplished European leaders of recent years and whose modest personal style served to amplify Ireland's message in the US.
"If you look around the world, to be able to lead Ireland to the greatest period of peace and prosperity in 700 years is no small accomplishment and I think his talents are certainly talents we hope to see on the world stage again," Mr O'Malley said.
Later that evening, more than 400 guests, including House speaker Nancy Pelosi, attended a reception at the residence of Ireland's Ambassador to Washington, Michael Collins.
The Taoiseach joked that he had watched last month as hundreds of guests crowded into a marquee at the residence had trampled the Ambassador's garden.
"Little did I think we'd be back in a matter of six weeks and wreck it again. If any of you aren't doing anything on Saturday, you might come down and give him a dig out," he said.
As the laughter subsided, Mr Ahern added: "That phrase has another meaning in Ireland."
