Mark Durkan: Bishop Daly was '˜a very special man'

Mr. Durkan said he was “deeply saddened” at the death of 82-year-old Bishop Daly.

“He exuded warmth, care and faith-rooted goodness,” Mr Durkan told the ‘Journal’.

“He is a huge figure in the life of the city and in the lives of so many in the city. He provided stalwart leadership in the most difficult and dark times.

“He served us all in profound ways and with special care and deep devotion to human wellbeing.

“His love of people was reflective in his strong sense of justice, his anguish at violent hurt and his genuine respect for diversity.

“He didn’t just know his scripture, he loved all literature and easily shared this in his well framed sermons.

“I think everyone in the Derry Diocese will feel they have lost a friend, and not just a figurehead.”