Martin McGuinness passes away aged 66

The party issued a statement this morning confirming the sad news.

Mr McGuinness has died just a few short months since his retirement from frontline politics.

He was 66 years old.

Sinn Fein, in a statement, said this morning that it was “with deep regret and sadness that we have learnt of the death of our friend and comrade Martin McGuinness who passed away in Derry during the night”.

“He will be sorely missed by all who knew him,” the party added.

Speaking this morning ,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.

“I measc laochra na nGael go raibh a anam dílis.”