Funeral for man beaten to death

Gerry Adams had known Mr McGreevy since the early 1970s

The funeral for a 51-year-old man who died after being beaten in west Belfast has taken place.

Frank McGreevy, a former republican prisoner, had been on a life-support machine following Saturday's attack in Ross Street. He died on Tuesday.

He was buried at Belfast's City Cemetery following a service in St Peter's Cathedral.

Thomas Valliday, 20, has been charged with Mr McGreevy's murder as well as six other offences.

'Well respected'

Mr McGreevy was found injured by his 15-year-old son, Francis. He also has another son, Tiernan, who is nine years old.

Frank McGreevy died several days after being attacked

Speaking at the funeral, Sinn Fein leader Gerry Adams said Mr McGreevy was well known and well respected in the area.

"He loved his clan. He loved music. He loved Celtic," he said.

"He was extremely proud of his two sons. Those who murdered him have no concept of any of this.

"His terrible death has created a storm."

Mr McGreevy's coffin was draped with an Ireland tricolour, and had a beret and gloves on top.

Mr Adams said he had known Mr McGreevy since the early 1970s.

"I never for a moment thought that I would be standing here on Easter Saturday morning giving an oration at the graveside of Bap McGreevy," he said.