FACTBOX - Reaction to Paisley stepping down in N.Ireland

DUBLIN (Reuters) - Protestant preacher Ian Paisley, a towering figure on Northern Ireland's political scene for five decades, will step down as First Minister of the British province's power-sharing government in May.

Following are comments on his departure:

PRIME MINISTER GORDON BROWN

"Ian Paisley has made a huge contribution to political life in Northern Ireland and the United Kingdom. The whole country values and admires the manner in which he has led as First Minister.

"His commitment and dedication to public service deserve our gratitude. Progress on bringing a lasting peace to Northern Ireland would not have been possible without his immense courage and leadership."

IRISH PRIME MINISTER BERTIE AHERN

"The announcement by Dr Ian Paisley that he will step down from the post of First Minister is a watershed in the history of Ireland. He is a giant figure in the history of these islands.

"In recent years, I have grown to know Dr. Paisley and have valued the practical and friendly working relationship that developed between us. I respect him as a man who worked tirelessly for the people he represents and who has sincerely done what he believed was right.

"I can say with certainty that the leadership he has shown in recent years means that future generations of Irish people, North and South, will live in a peace and prosperity that previous generations could only dream of."