McAleese sends message of sympathy

Irish politicians and representatives have sent messages of sympathy and support to the people of Norway.

A statement issued last night by the office of President McAleese said:

"President McAleese has extended her condolences to King Harald of Norway and the Norwegian people, on behalf of the Irish people, in light of the terrible atrocity which was inflicted on them earlier today."

The message was passed though Ireland’s ambassador to Norway, Mr Gary Ansbro

Tánaiste Eamon Gilmore offered condolences of the Government.

Fianna Fáil spokesman on foreign affairs and trade Seán Ó Fearghaíl said: "This is an extremely difficult time for the people of Norway. I want to extend my condolences to the families of all those who died in yesterday’s bombing in Oslo and shooting on Utoeya Island, resulting in dozens of lives lost."

"I have extended my sympathies to Ambassador Øyvind Nordsletten and asked him to convey this message to Prime Minister Stoltenberg on behalf of my party."

Labour Youth issued a statement saying:

"The loss of any human life is a tragedy, and we offer our sincerest sympathy and condolences to the people of Norway as they come to terms with this tragic event.

As young socialists and social-democrats, we are particularly horrified by the callous and brutal murder of our comrades in the Workers' Youth League of Norway.

Our thoughts are with the victims' families, their friends and with those who love them. We are united in our shock and in our sadness. We share in their grief."