STATEMENTS of praise and congratulations poured in from the political establishment for the President, Mrs Robinson, last night.

The Taoiseach, Mr Bruton, described her appointment as "important and prestigious", adding that she would fill the role with great distinction.

"It is particularly appropriate that Ireland, which has for long supported the work of the United Nations in the human rights field, should now, in the person of the President, have responsibility for the task of promoting and protecting these rights."

The Tanaiste, Mr Spring, said: "Her appointment is a great honour for President Robinson and for Ireland." He said of the lobbying campaign by the Department of Foreign Affairs, "I am glad to say that when we approached all the embassies they recognised the qualities and calibre of President Robinson, and in that respect it was an easy job for us to do."

The Minister for Social Welfare and Democratic Left leader, Mr De Rossa, said he had no doubt she would bring to the UN Commissioner job the same vision, skill and commitment she had shown during her seven years in the presidency.

The Fianna Fail leader, Mr Bertie Ahern, said the President would bring her "undoubted ability, dynamism, credibility and leadership" to the United Nations job.

The Progressive Democrats' leader, Ms Mary Harney, said her appointment reflected a recognition of her exceptional talents. "I am confident she will bring the same commitment to the post that she gave to the presidency".