Tony Blair: "Invitation shows changing relationship"

The move was confirmed on Monday as Mr Blair began his first visit to the republic since taking office last year.

His Irish counterpart Bertie Ahern was pressed to extend the invitation in the Dail - the Dublin parliament - last week, to honour Mr Blair's contribution to the Northern Ireland peace process.

Mr Blair signalled his acceptance, saying he was "honoured and privileged".

Closer cooperation

He added: "I believe a new era in UK-Irish relations is opening up.

The gates of the Dail have been closed to British politicians until now

"It is not a just a question of discussing Northern Ireland, there are a whole range of issues that we have in common, where it is important that we discuss, exchange views, and, where we can, adopt common positions in the interests of both countries."

Mr Blair said there was a series of questions on Europe, where the two countries could work closely together, give each other support and assistance on matters concerning both.

The two leaders began their meeting with talks concentrating on Northern Ireland and dealt with broader European issues at a subsequent working dinner.

There was also discussion about the timetable the peace process will follow after this month's elections for the new Northern Ireland assembly.

A linked item on the agenda focused on the possible consequences for the peace process of weekend disturbances in Ulster and the approaching political marching season.