Sinn Féin tribute to Mickey Brady after death of former MP

Sinn Féin has paid tribute following the death of its former MP Mickey Brady, saying the party and the people of Newry have "lost a giant of the community".

The former welfare rights adviser served as MP for Newry and Armagh for almost a decade and was also a former member of the Northern Ireland Assembly.

Sinn Féin leader Mary Lou McDonald said he always put "the needs of ordinary people first" and had dedicated a "lifetime of service" to his community.

Deputy leader Michelle O'Neill said Brady "gave his time generously to everyone who sought his help".

Confirming his death in a party statement, McDonald described him as a "friend and comrade" who had "dedicated his entire life to the people of Newry and Armagh".

"Long before he ever held elected office, Mickey was already known across the community as someone who stood with and by the people," McDonald said.

"His work in welfare rights and housing advice changed thousands of lives, quietly and without fanfare, year after year."

She added that he brought the same values with him when he entered politics.

"He believed completely in the peace process, in reconciliation, and in a united Ireland built on equality and respect for all.

"He was also a gentle soul – warm, witty, and unfailingly generous with his time. He treated everyone with respect," McDonald said.

Brady was first elected to the Northern Ireland Assembly in 2007.

As an assembly member (MLA), he served on Stormont's health committee and as deputy chair of the Department for Social Development committee.

In 2015 he left his Stormont role for Westminster, winning the Newry and Armagh seat.

During that campaign he received three death threats within 24 hours, including a warning that a bomb had been left at his family home.

No device was found and Brady said he would not be intimidated, but he added it was a "terrifying experience for my neighbours".

Brady retired from elected politics in 2024 after announcing he would not be standing for re-election to Westminster.

He is survived by his wife, children, step-children and grandchildren.

O'Neill said: "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.

"His door was always open to people right across the community, and he gave his time generously to everyone who sought his help."

The Sinn Féin deputy leader added she would remember her "dear friend" for his "sharp wit and endless stories".

"He had a rare ability to lift spirits and bring smiles wherever he went."