Róisín Shortall (Dublin North West, Social Democrats) | Oireachtas source

I would like to extend my sincere condolences and those of the Social Democrats to the family, friends and Fine Gael colleagues of the late Austin Currie on his very sad passing. Mr. Currie was a pivotal figure in Irish politics, having played an instrumental role in the civil rights movement, been a founding member of the SDLP, and served as an MP for South Tyrone and, latterly, as a Fine Gael Deputy and distinguished Minister of State. His outward political affiliation may have changed, which was necessitated by his move to Dublin, but his core decency, integrity, bravery and tireless advocacy for peace, social justice and human rights never did. The kinds of richly deserved plaudits being paid to him now on both sides of the Border are an indication of the huge influence he had on the political life of this island and the warm esteem in which he was held by everyone. Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam dílis.

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