Ford pays tribute to departing US envoy

12.00.00pm GMT Sun 21st Jan 2007

Alliance Party Leader, David Ford, has paid tribute to US Special Envoy, Mitchell Reiss, who is stepping down at the end of this month, and looked forward to working with the new envoy, Paula Dobriansky.

David Ford said: "Mitchell has made a very positive contribution over the past three years. He maintained a very firm line on the need for the end of all paramilitary activity, and support for the rule of law. He did much to facilitate support for our new Police Service. Mitchell was also noted for being a sterling advocate of a shared future, and in particular integrated education.

"I am hopeful that Dr Dobriansky will continue to build on this good work, and look forward to meeting her at the end of this month."