Former President Mary McAleese has been honoured by the French embassy in Dublin.

She was awarded the Dignité de Grand Officier de l'Ordre National du Mérite at a ceremony on Monday.

This is the highest rank of the National Order of Merit, which rewards distinguished recipients for their achievements in several fields - such as politics, public service and education.

The order has three ranks: Chevalier, Officier and Commandeur.

Beyond these ranks is the title of 'Dignité', which is given to about one in 1,000 recipients within the order.

The French embassy said Mrs McAleese has "worked tirelessly over the years to bridge communities on both sides of the border.

Powerful appeal in favour of the European ideal from former President of Ireland Mary McAleese upon receiving the Dignité de Grand Officier de l’Ordre National du Mérite. Awarded by Pdt @EmmanuelMacron the Order recognises the role played by Ms McAleese in bridging communities pic.twitter.com/ludKCWb1q6

— France in Ireland (@FranceinIreland) February 4, 2019

"Through her engagement first with civil society organisations and universities and then as President of Ireland, Ms McAleese embodied a new politic, in which North and South work together for the well-being of the island of Ireland."

Speaking ahead of the event, Ambassador Stéphane Crouzat praised "a president who built bridges where there once were divisions.

"President McAleese showed Europe and the world that peace and cooperation could be achieved after decades of distrust.

"This is a message worth remembering today."

Presenting her with the award, Ambassador Crouzat said: "You have always wanted to build bridges between peoples, genders, social classes and religions.

"I hope that the French and Irish people will continue to be inspired by your people and continue to build beautiful bridges our two cultures."