CAOIMHGHÍN Ó CAOLÁIN: SINN FÉIN leader in the Dáil Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin described Dr Patrick Hillery as "a modest and unassuming man who used his talents and energies effectively but preferred to do so without any great fanfare".

He said: "There has been some comment on the role played by Dr Hillery as minister for foreign affairs during the outbreak of the conflict in the Six Counties in 1969 and in the subsequent years up to the aftermath of Bloody Sunday in 1972.

"It is not appropriate at this time to enter into controversy on that period and the role of the Irish government in it.

"Let it be said, however, that when Dr Hillery sought to call the British government to account before the United Nations for its disastrous role in this country, his words reflected the views of the vast majority of the Irish people and across the political spectrum."

Mr Ó Caoláin, who said he did not know Dr Hillery personally, added: "Generations, including those of Dr Hillery and his parents whose home was burned by the Black and Tans in their time, have dreamed of lasting peace and real reconciliation.

"People across all political parties and none can take pride in their efforts in turning that dream of the past into today's developing reality.

"Thug an iar-uachtarán Ó hIrighile seirbhís fhada do mhuintir na hÉireann. Déanaim comhbhrón arís lena bhean, Maeve, lena mhac, John, agus le clann Uí hIrighile uilig.

"Ar dheis lámh Dé go raibh a anam."