Tributes paid to late trade unionist Inez McCormack

Londonderry MP Mark Durkan spoke of his sadness at her untimely death after a battle with illness.

“Inez McCormack was impressive and effective in all she did,” he said. “She stood for workers’ rights, for women’s rights, for equality and public services. As an organiser and as an advocate she championed the right of those serving others for lower pay than they deserved.”

He added: “She was articulate, compassionate and steadfast. She was immensely charming as well as being intense in her convictions.

“Her contribution to public life went beyond her primary role as a worker’s defender as she helped to benchmark the values, principles and protections that were needed for a fair and stable society.”

Mr Durkan said her positive outlook had won international recognition.

“I extend my sympathy to her husband Vincent and her family whose sense of deep loss will be shared by a wider circle crossing age and other divides who will know that we have lost a stalwart for decency,” she said.