Ahern and Paisley visit Battle of Boyne site in Meath
The new mood of peace and reconciliation in the North is in evidence today as the Taoiseach and Ian Paisley make a joint visit to the site of the Battle of the Boyne in Co Meath.
The event marks Dr Paisley's first visit to the Republic since being sworn in as the new First Minister at Stormont on Tuesday.
Security is tight for the historic visit, which is a further sign of the thawing relations between the DUP and the Government.
Dr Paisley and Mr Ahern are due to visit an exhibition related to the Battle of the Boyne at Oldbridge House, while the DUP leader is also due to present the Taoiseach with a replica musket.
The Tánaiste Michael McDowell and Minister for Foreign Affairs Dermot Ahern are also expected to be in attendance, along with several ministers from the new Northern Executive and members of the Orange Order.
Dr Paisley and Mr Ahern planted a tree at the site after visiting an exhibition at Oldbridge House, which is being refurbished as a visitor centre.
Dr Paisley also presented the Taoiseach with musket dating from the 1690 battle between William of Orange's Protestant forces and the army of Catholic King James.
Both men said they hoped to strengthen cross-border relations based on mutual respect and good neighbourliness.
Today's ceremony is being attended by a host of politicians from both sides of the border, as well as members of the Orange Order.
