Sinn Fein MPs' sadness at the death of Tony Benn - `a great friend of the Irish people'
Sinn Fein MPs Pat Doherty, Michelle Gildernew, Francie Molloy, Conor Murphy and Paul Maskey, have expressed their `deep sadness' on the death of Tony Benn.
Speaking on behalf of the MPs, Pat Doherty MP said
`I would like to express my deep sadness on hearing of the news of the death of Tony Benn this morning'.
`Tony was a great friend of Ireland, a politician of immense standing and principle, as an activist and as an MP.
`Both myself and colleagues met Tony on many occasions over the years. He was a committed socialist and internationalist and he was never afraid to speak up for justice and freedom close to home in relation to Ireland.
`He spoke passionately in support of Irish unity and self-determination. His vision and foresight meant that he was a strong advocate of the peace process and inclusive dialogue, many years before this came to pass. He was a great supporter of our political work in Britain and efforts towards peace and progress.
`Tony was a champion for humanity all his life, in Britain, Ireland and throughout the world. He will be deeply missed.
`On behalf of all of our MPs, I wish to extend my condolences and those of Sinn Féin, to Tony Benn's family at this time.'