Tributes have been paid following the death of former Sinn Fein MLA Francie Brolly - father of GAA pundit Joe.
Brolly, a musician and ex-teacher from Dungiven, Derry, died at his home today.
The veteran Republican was outspoken in his anti-abortion views and resigned from Sinn Fein in 2018 over the party's support for repeal of the Eighth Amendment.
He served in the Northern Ireland Assembly as a Sinn Fein MLA from 2003-2010 and later became a founding member of pro-life party Aontu, led by ex-Sinn Fein TD Peadar Toibin.
Sinn Fein leader Mary Lou McDonald said: "I want to extend my deepest condolences, and those of Sinn Féin, to the family and friends of Francie Brolly who has passed away.
"Francie was a committed and dedicated Irish Republican. He was a fine political representative, campaigner and musician, and his passing will be deeply felt in his native Dungiven and further afield.
"My deepest sympathies go to Francie's wife Anne, their children Joe, Proinnsías, Conal, Áine and Nollaig, the wider family and to his neighbours and friends."
Sinn Fein Mayor of Derry City Michaela Boyle also paid tribute, saying: “I worked alongside Francie Brolly in the Assembly for a number of years and news of his death today has come as a real shock to me.
"Francie was a committed republican who played a significant role in Irish politics throughout his career.
"He was a true Irishman with a genuine love for the Irish language, music, sport and culture that he shared and enjoyed with the wider community across Co. Derry.
"Strong in his beliefs, Francie was committed to family life and working for the better of the entire community in East Derry and beyond.
"He will be greatly missed by everyone who knew him and my sincere condolences go out to Anne and the Brolly family at this sad time.”
Mr Brolly is survived by his wife Anne, and children Joe (All-Ireland winning footballer and pundit), Proinnsías, Conal, Áine and Nollaig.
