President congratulates Munster team

President Mary McAlesse has congratulated the Munster rugby team on their victory in Cardiff in the Heineken Cup Final.

Mrs McAleese said: "Congratulations and well done to a great Munster team, who showed such
courage and determination in achieving this memorable win. All of us will join with the dedicated Munster fans in celebrating this outstanding victory".

Munster confirmed their position at the head of European rugby's top table with an epic 16-13 point win over fellow aristocrats Toulouse.

President McAleese watched the match in Lourdes where she is attending the 50th International Military Pilgrimage.

President Mary McAleese is in Lourdes with 500 members of the Defence Forces to mark the 50th anniversary celebration of the International Military Pilgrimage to the religious French pilgrim town.

Mrs McAleese, who is Commander of the Defence Forces, and her husband, Martin, will return to Ireland tomorrow afternoon. 

Taoiseach Brian Cowen also conveyed his congratulations to Munster on their victory.

He said " I want to congratulate Declan Kidney and his Munster team on a  hard fought win. Toulouse were worthy opponents and it was a great match between the two best teams this season.

"Munster's path was a tough one but the team and supporters will enjoy the win all the more because of this.

"It is a fitting finale to Declan Kidney's successful reign with the team and I wish him and the Munster team all the best for the future."