Martin McGuinness 'leaves a gap that will be hard to fill' says President

Tributes from around the world are being paid to  a man whose journey from IRA chief of staff to Stormont’s deputy first minister personified the Northern Ireland peace process.

66-year-old Martin McGuinness  was surrounded by his family in Derry’s Altnagelvin hospital. He had been suffering from a rare genetic disease caused by deposits of abnormal protein – amyloid – in tissues and vital organs including the heart. President of Ireland , Michael D. Higgins said:" I wish to pay tribute to his immense contribution to the advancement of peace and reconciliation in Northern Ireland – a contribution which has rightly been recognised across all shades of opinion. " He said: "As a political colleague of many years, and having participated together in the Presidential election campaign of 2011 that brought us all over Ireland, Sabina and I have appreciated both Martin McGuinness’ warmth and his unfailing courtesy." He said:"Our paths have crossed many times in recent years at official events, including most recently at the GPO for the 1916 commemorations, as well as in our celebrations of ‘the beautiful game’, at Glentoran and in France at the European Championships." President Higgins said:"In addition to his services in public life, as an inclusive believer in community in all its forms he will also be remembered for his warm support for Derry GAA and Derry FC. His death leaves a gap that will be difficult to fill. May he rest in peace.”

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