IRISH rock star and anti-poverty campaigner Bono was
made an honorary British knight at a ceremony in Dublin
overnight.
Presenting the insignia on behalf of Queen Elizabeth II, ambassador
David Reddaway said it was awarded in recognition of his services
to the music industry and for his humanitarian work.
Bono - real name Paul Hewson - has become an honorary Knight
Commander of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire
(KBE).
The award is conferred by the Queen on the advice of the British
Government.
This honorary award recognises Bono's extraordinary and
inspirational commitment to relieve global poverty and focus
international attention on the plight of Africa; the AIDS pandemic;
and the third world debt crisis, Mr Reddaway said.
He has played a key role in persuading governments and
international institutions to wipe out much of the burden of
international debt owed by third world governments.
We in the UK particularly appreciated his work alongside our G8
and European Union presidencies in 2005, which we were determined
would produce real benefits for Africa.
Mr Reddaway also paid tribute to the singer for his contribution to
the music industry.
U2 is not only one of the most successful bands of all time, but
have been highly effective in raising support for justice related
causes through benefit concerts and recordings.
In accepting the insignia, U2 frontman Bono thanked the ambassador
for pinning this award on me in my hometown and the band for not
bursting my balloon.
What a great year for an Irishman to receive an award from Great
Britain.
The (Northern Irish) peace process has proceeded to a conclusion,
debt cancellation - started in Great Britain - has put 20 million
African children in school, The Happy Mondays and Shaun Ryder have
reformed, England's rugby squad entered Croke Park to thunderous
applause, silence for God Save The Queen, then the Irish hammered
them.
I couldn't be more proud, said Bono.
Honorary awards are conferred on citizens of countries of which
Queen Elizabeth is not head of state but the KBE does not confer
the title Sir, as it does to British and Commonwealth
recipients.
Ireland has no awards system so Bono's acceptance of the award
received clearance from the Government of Prime Minister Bertie
Ahern.