Funeral of Sinn Fein politician

Many mourners attended the funeral of Michael Ferguson

The funeral has taken place of West Belfast Sinn Fein assembly member Michael Ferguson.

Mr Ferguson, 53, who was also a councillor in Lisburn, died suddenly on Sunday night.

The father-of-four had been treated for testicular cancer. He was diagnosed with the disease two months ago and had undergone chemotherapy.

Mourners were told by Father Martin Magill that Mr Ferguson had worked tirelessly for the community.

He said that in an email to him 10 days before his death, the politician told the parish priest that he had turned his hospital bed into a workstation so he could tend to his constituents.

He also told the mourners who included Sinn Fein leader, Gerry Adams, as well as unionist and nationalist politicians from other parties, that he was dedicated to the community he served, particularly in the Poleglass and Colin Glen areas.

"Michael loved his community, especially Poleglass and Colin Glen and felt that they should get everything," he said.

Father Magill also described Mr Ferguson as a dedicated family man who took great comfort in the support from his family during his battle with cancer.

Mr Ferguson was buried in Milltown Cemetary after Requiem Mass at St Theresa's Church on the Glen Road.

Mr Ferguson had spoken about his illness to the Irish News newspaper last week. The article was published in Monday's edition.

He told the paper: "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, who was elected to the assembly in 2003, had been a councillor for the last 18 years.