An Taoiseach Brian Cowen:

"It was a privilege to be in Cardiff today and to witness the team's courage, remarkable determination and will to win for Ireland. The players have brought great distinction to themselves and to our country. It has truly been a most memorable season in Irish rugby history and great credit is due to the Coach Declan Kidney, team captain Brian O'Driscoll and the entire playing squad."

Fine Gael Leader Enda Kenny:

"It's a magnificent achievement. It is a day you can be proud to be Irish. This game had some heart-stopping moments, but it was the Irish team's heroic struggle that secured the Grand Slam. We have followed the team's efforts throughout the tournament, and have witnessed some of the finest rugby ever seen in the Six Nations."

Martin Cullen, Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism:

"Tonight in Cardiff was a magnificent occasion for Irish Rugby and I am delighted to congratulate the Irish Rugby Team on their victory – winning the Grand Slam, the Championship and Triple Crown. They are deserving winners of the highest accolade in northern hemisphere rugby and have secured for themselves a permanent place in Irish sporting history.

This is only the second time in our history that Ireland has won the Grand Slam. Huge praise must go to Declan Kidney and his management and coaching team in their first year at the helm and to captain Brian O'Driscoll and all the players for their determination and on an outstanding achievement that they should all be immensely proud of."

Man of the Match and captain Brian O'Driscoll:

"It feels so good and to go down to that at the end, it would have broken my heart. I'm so proud of the boys, we took a lot of flak the last 18 months and to come back and win, I'm so delighted. He (Declan Kidney) said we were still completely in it, we hadn't converted our pressure into points and we came out firing and got two quick tries."

President Mary McAleese:

"They did us proud today, and it's a lovely happy occasion for Ireland. The people of Wales were very welcoming, we all got on well."