Tributes have been paid to former junior minister and key Northern Ireland peace process adviser Martin Mansergh, who has died aged 78.

Taoiseach and Fianna Fáil leader Micheál Martin expressed his deep sadness upon learning of Mr Mansergh’s passing. Mr Mansergh was on a trip to the Sahara with other retired parliamentarians at the time.

Mr Martin said, “I had the honour of knowing Martin for over four decades. He was unquestionably one of the most important public servants in our recent history, filling many different roles and having a profound impact on issues deeply important to the Irish people.”

Throughout his career, Mr Mansergh served as an adviser to leaders of Fianna Fáil, both in government and in opposition. According to Mr Martin, he was exceptional in his knowledge and devotion to the cause of peace on the island of Ireland and throughout Europe.

He added, “His contribution to securing peace on this island marks him as a figure who will always be honoured. His early, secret negotiations in Belfast on behalf of Taoisigh and his work through more than a decade were essential in securing the peace settlement and overcoming many later hurdles.”
https://www.breakingnews.ie/ireland/martin-mansergh-dies-aged-78-1811482.html