The President of the European Parliament, Mr Pat Cox, has been given a major German award in recognition of his services to European peace and unity.
The Munster MEP will receive the International Charlemagne Prize on May 20th in recognition of his contribution to European integration and, "in particular, his work in securing the historic enlargement which will take place on May 1st this year".
This year, the prize will also be awarded to Pope John Paul II.
The International Charlemagne Prize was established in 1949 to mark Germany's commitment to a harmonious post-war continent. It has become one of the most prestigious European honours.
Previous winners include Mr Konrad Adenauer, Mr Winston Churchill, Mr George Marshall, Mr Henry Kissinger and Mr Vaclav Havel.