Irish State Papers reveal how Prince Andrew helped to resolve Lord Mandelson's diplomatic mishap

Newly released Irish state papers reveal that Prince Andrew helped smooth over mistakes made by then Northern Ireland Secretary Peter Mandelson at a charity event in 2000. The papers, part of the National Archives of Ireland collection, document the implementation of the Good Friday Agreement and the Patten Report. Mandelson, who took on the role of secretary of state for Northern Ireland in 1999, faced criticism for his level of interest and knowledge in Northern Ireland. At a charity event hosted by Patrick Kielty, Mandelson embarrassed David Trimble, confusing Harland & Wolff with Shorts and asking if Kielty's father had been a member of the IRA. Prince Andrew intervened diplomatically to resolve the situation. The papers also noted that Prince Andrew displayed a better understanding of industrial policy in Northern Ireland than Mandelson. The Irish government, unsatisfied with Mandelson's neutrality and flexibility, later expressed concerns about his handling of the new police service. Mandelson resigned as secretary of state in 2001, shortly after the enactment of the Police (Northern Ireland) Act, which established the Police Service of Northern Ireland. The papers also document the loyalist protest at Holy Cross girls' primary school in Ardoyne, north Belfast, which occurred in 2001. The incident highlighted factors such as demographic change and the role of loyalist paramilitaries. Despite efforts to resolve the conflict, sporadic violence persisted in the area. Anne Tanney, the school principal, expressed her dismay at Holy Cross becoming synonymous with bigotry and sectarian hatred.