Sinn Féin Vice President Michelle O'Neill has led tributes to former Newry and Armagh MP and MLA Mickey Brady, following his death at the age of 75.

Mr Brady, who passed away on Friday, 16 January, was a prominent figure in the republican movement and a dedicated community activist for over 50 years.

Known locally as a "champion of the people," Mr Brady first gained prominence through his work in welfare and housing rights before entering elected politics. He served as an MLA for Newry and Armagh from 2007 until 2015, when he was elected to Westminster as an abstentionist MP. He held his seat in the House of Commons for nine years until stepping down in 2024.

Michelle O'Neill expressed her profound sadness at the loss of a man she described as a "giant of the community." She remarked: "Mickey was a lifelong champion for the people of Newry and Armagh, dedicating more than five decades of his life to community and political activism. He had a deep-rooted passion for his community and its people, whether through his work in welfare advice or during his time as a Sinn Féin MLA and MP for the area."

Reflecting on his political journey, Ms O'Neill highlighted Mr Brady's involvement in the civil rights movement and his commitment to Irish reunification. She added: "As an Irish Republican, involved from as far back as the civil rights movement, Mickey spoke with great pride when reflecting on the strides made to ensure fairness for his community and towards national unification. I will always remember Mickey for his sharp wit and endless stories. He had a rare ability to lift spirits and bring smiles wherever he went. He was a gentleman and a deeply insightful, knowledgeable, and committed political activist."

Mr Brady's reputation for accessibility and kindness was noted as a hallmark of his public service. "His door was always open to people right across the community, and he gave his time generously to everyone who sought his help," Ms O'Neill said. "He loved the people of Newry and Armagh, and they loved him in return."

Sinn Féin President Mary Lou McDonald also paid tribute, describing him as a "gentle soul" who treated everyone with respect. Mr Brady is survived by his wife Caroline, daughter Saoirse, and sons Michael, Sean, and Niall.

Concluding her tribute, the First Minister said: "My thoughts are with his wife Caroline, daughter Saoirse, and sons Michael, Sean and Niall, stepchildren and wider family. A family has lost a deeply devoted father and grandfather. Newry, and Sinn Féin, has lost a giant of the community. Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam."