Taoiseach Enda Kenny said the new Stormont Assembly has an unprecedented opportunity to consign Northern Ireland’s troubled past further into history.
Mr Kenny congratulated the 108 successful candidates and praised voters for turning out.
"At the conclusion of this Assembly election, following the first-ever uninterrupted term of power-sharing government, we are reminded of the value of peaceful democratic politics and the need to constantly work to protect and renew our democratic institutions," he said.
"But we also look ahead with greater confidence than ever before to a better, shared future on this island.
Mr Kenny said the new Assembly begins its work from a very solid base.
"Although it faces significant challenges, which will require all parties to work closely together, it also has an unprecedented opportunity to put the past even further behind us and to bring about change for good."