Pope Francis: Northern Ireland's politicians pay tribute

Stormont's First Minister has been paying tribute to Pope Francis who died this morning (Monday)

Michelle O’Neill said he was a "man of great faith and a strong, determined leader."

“During his visit to Ireland in 2018, he spoke passionately in support of the peace process. He also marked the 25th anniversary of the Good Friday Agreement, giving thanks for the peace it delivered in Ireland," she said.

“Pope Francis showed compassion on LGBT issues and condemned right-wing extremists, and he was ahead of many world leaders in speaking out against the Israeli war in Gaza. His efforts to reach out and acknowledge past wrongs should also be recognised.

“Catholics right across the world, including here in Ireland, will feel his loss deeply.

“I extend my condolences to Archbishop of Armagh and Primate of All Ireland, Eamon Martin, Church leaders here in Ireland and throughout the world.”

Deputy First Minister Emma Little-Pengelly said that Pope Francis was "held in high regard and admiration by so many" and that his loss "will be felt deeply."

"Pope Francis was held in high regard and admiration by so many, not only here in Northern Ireland, but across the rest of the United Kingdom, and Ireland," she said..

"I know that his loss will be felt deeply, particularly by his church and the many congregations here and throughout the globe.

"I offer my sincere condolences to all those who mourn the passing of Pope Francis.

"May God give comfort at this time of grieving."

DUP leader Gavin Robinson added that the Pope "was held in deep affection by many in Northern Ireland."

"We extend our respectful sympathies to all those grieving his passing." he said.

"While many within the unionist community may hold different theological views, it is important to recognise the profound respect and admiration that many of our fellow countrymen and women had for the humble caretaker who entered the priesthood and died as the head of the Roman Catholic church.

"At this moment, we acknowledge their sorrow and offer our sincere condolences."

SDLP MP Colum Eastwood said Pope Francis was a leader "in every sense of the word."

“ His deep wells of kindness, compassion and empathy for others, especially the marginalised and dispossessed, gave him a powerful moral authority that went far beyond his role as head of the Catholic Church," he said.

“I know that people across our community, many of whom do not identify as Catholic or who had felt themselves distant from the church, felt a closeness to and strong admiration for Pope Francis that transcended denomination.

"That came from his characteristic love of people, his modest lifestyle and commitment to lifting up the most vulnerable. The loss of his leadership will be keenly felt across the world."

Alliance leader Naomi Long said the world had "lost an advocate for peace, freedom and democracy".

Northern Ireland Assembly Speaker Edwin Poots said he would be coordinating arrangements to mark the Pope's death in the Assembly.

"As Speaker of the Northern Ireland Assembly, I express my condolences to the many people in our community who are in mourning today," he said.

"I will be engaging with the party whips to make appropriate arrangements for the Assembly to mark the passing of Pope Francis."