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25/09/2006
Sinn Fein MLA dies
Sinn Fein MLA Michael Ferguson has died suddenly at his west Belfast home, it has been reported.
Mr Ferguson, 53, who was Sinn Fein's education spokesman, was diagnosed with testicular cancer two months ago, and had been receiving chemotherapy treatment for the illness.
It has been reported that he died in his sleep last night.
Sinn Fein President, Gerry Adams, has today extended his deepest sympathies to Mr Ferguson's family.
Mr Adams said: "I want to extend my deepest sympathies to Louise and their four children and to Michael's wider family circle.
"No one who met Michael could fail to see his passion for life and determination.
"Despite his illness, Michael's death will come as a great shock to the many people who knew and respected him."
Last Monday, a local newspaper printed an article after speaking to Mr Ferguson about his illness.
He said: "Men are neglectful of their own health and do not visit their doctors.
"I was squeamish, embarrassed and shy about going to the doctor and asking him to examine my testicles."
Mr Ferguson was elected as an MLA in 2003, however he has been a councillor for the past 18 years.
Throughout his time serving as the party's education spokesperson, he had campaigned against cuts by the Northern Ireland Office, the publication of school league tables and for the Irish language school sector.
Mr Ferguson is survived by his wife and four children.
(EF/KMcA)
Mr Ferguson, 53, who was Sinn Fein's education spokesman, was diagnosed with testicular cancer two months ago, and had been receiving chemotherapy treatment for the illness.
It has been reported that he died in his sleep last night.
Sinn Fein President, Gerry Adams, has today extended his deepest sympathies to Mr Ferguson's family.
Mr Adams said: "I want to extend my deepest sympathies to Louise and their four children and to Michael's wider family circle.
"No one who met Michael could fail to see his passion for life and determination.
"Despite his illness, Michael's death will come as a great shock to the many people who knew and respected him."
Last Monday, a local newspaper printed an article after speaking to Mr Ferguson about his illness.
He said: "Men are neglectful of their own health and do not visit their doctors.
"I was squeamish, embarrassed and shy about going to the doctor and asking him to examine my testicles."
Mr Ferguson was elected as an MLA in 2003, however he has been a councillor for the past 18 years.
Throughout his time serving as the party's education spokesperson, he had campaigned against cuts by the Northern Ireland Office, the publication of school league tables and for the Irish language school sector.
Mr Ferguson is survived by his wife and four children.
(EF/KMcA)
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