Martin McGuinness Dies Aged 66

Former deputy first minister Martin McGuinness has died, aged 66.

The former IRA leader turned peacemaker died overnight at Altnegelvin Hospital in L'Derry.

Mr McGuinness resigned as deputy first minister in January over the DUP's handling of the botched Renewable Heat Incentive (RHI) scheme.

Sinn Féin President Gerry Adams TD said: "Throughout his life Martin showed great determination, dignity and humility and it was no different during his short illness.

"He was a passionate republican who worked tirelessly for peace and reconciliation and for the re-unification of his country.  But above all he loved his family and the people of Derry and he was immensely proud of both.

"On behalf of republicans everywhere we extend our condolences to Bernie, Fiachra, Emmet, Fionnuala and Grainne, grandchildren and the extended McGuinness family."

Sinn Féin leader in the North Michelle O'Neill MLA  said: "On behalf of Sinn Féin I want to offer my deepest condolences following the death of our friend and comrade, Martin McGuinness. 

"Martin was truly a giant of Irish politics and was known and respected across the world. 

"He led republicanism from the front for decades, striving for reunification and promoting peace and reconciliation and a genuine commitment to equality and respect. 

"Growing up as a young republican I was inspired by Martin McGuinness and I continue to be today. 

"His leadership, grace and warm personality have transformed Irish politics for the better and his impact will be felt for many years to come. 

"My thoughts are with his wife, Bernie, and children, Emmet, Fiachra, Fionnuala and Grainne and the entire clann at this time."

Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade, Charlie Flanagan TD, said: "Martin and I come from very different political traditions. However, in his embrace of the politics of peace, he made an immense personal contribution to building and consolidating peace on this island. His own personal journey from militant republicanism to deputy First Minister in a power-sharing administration with unionism helped to map the road to the Good Friday Agreement and its vision of partnership and reconciliation. 
In the past three years, I had the opportunity to work closely with Martin McGuinness and saw at first hand his many qualities. Martin’s generosity of spirit; his courageous leadership; and his ability to stretch himself in the pursuit of political stability inspired many others to do the same. He led with patience, with courtesy, and with a willingness to see and acknowledge the goodwill in others – even if those people were far removed from his own republican tradition.

"As deputy First Minister, Martin displayed great courage and leadership, especially in undertaking gestures of respect and reconciliation which reached across community lines. He did so despite being exposed to political criticism and personal risk. This legacy of leadership will no doubt inspire the next generation of leaders in Northern Ireland. Martin was deeply rooted in Derry, with great affection for its people, its places and its sporting traditions. But above all it was his family that was at the centre of Martin's life. For Bernie, his children and grandchildren, Martin's untimely loss is very difficult to bear and they are in all our thoughts at this very sad time."

(CD)