NI business group pays tribute to McGuinness ‘statesmanship’

The Northern Irish arm of a major business organisation has paid tribute to the former deputy first minister who has died.

Martin McGuinness, 66, was understood to be suffering from a rare heart condition. He died in Altnagelvin hospital surrounded by his family.

He stood down from his post as deputy first minister in January after failing to convince the then first minister, Arlene Foster, to step down over her involvement in the Renewable Heating Initiative scandal.

Mr McGuinness’s party and political opponents have paid tribute to the paramilitary-turned-peacemaker, with the DUP leader Arlene Foster saying: “He was pivotal in bringing the republican movement towards a position of using peaceful and democratic means.”

Northern Ireland’s regional chair for the CBI, David Gavaghan, said the organisation had learned of Mr McGuinness’s passing “with great sadness”.

“It is with great sadness that we learn of Martin McGuinness’ death,” he said. “His statesmanship as deputy first minister has been central to the success of the peace process over the last decade. Peace is the foundation stone for improving economic prosperity in our region.”

Mr Gavaghan added: “Much work remains to be done and his passing comes at a time when we need to rededicate ourselves both to nurturing peace and to creating more prosperity for all our citizens. Our thoughts and prayers are with his wife, Bernadette, and family.”

The chief executive of RetailNI, Glyn Roberts (main picture, right), also paid tribute to McGuinness, a former candidate for Irish president.

Writing on Twitter, Mr Roberts said: “Tragic news of Martin McGuinness passing. It was always a pleasure to work with him. He is a big loss to politics in Northern Ireland.”