Northern Ireland First Minister Mr David Trimble has been urged by the SDLP leader to repair some of the damage he had caused with his depiction of the Republic as a "pathetic, sectarian, mono-cultural and mono-ethnic state".
As the North’s political leaders prepared to meet US president George W. Bush today in Washington, Stormont Deputy First Minister Mr Mark Durkan claimed the Ulster Unionist leader's comments had offended supporters of the peace process on both sides of the Atlantic.
Despite the remarks, Mr Durkan said he was determined to "work well" with Mr Trimble for the benefit of all the people of Northern Ireland.
But he added: "I think anything he can do to help mitigate the damage that has been caused would be entirely helpful.
"I believe that many people who have shown enormous goodwill and support for David Trimble and for other progressive unionists as they have worked in this process in the south and in the States were genuinely offended and disappointed and hurt.
"I think when he appreciates that that is a genuine response and not some sort of syndicated indication drummed up by Northern nationalists he might revisit those remarks in a more positive and conciliatory manner."
On his arrival in Washington last night, the Ulster Unionist leader dismissed the furore over his comments as a "six day wonder".
Mr Trimble downplayed its impact on relations with the Taoiseach Mr Bertie Ahern.
"I have my views on the Republic and no doubt he has views about unionism, about Northern Ireland and about the United Kingdom as well, but that doesn't preclude doing business."
Mr Trimble also called for "serious consideration" to be given to his call for a referendum on the same day as next year's Assembly elections on whether Northern Ireland should remain in the United Kingdom.
PA