Death of SF councillor Ivan Barr

Ivan Barr died after a short illness

Strabane councillor and Sinn Fein representative Ivan Barr has died after a short illness.

Mr Barr had been involved in politics for over 40 years and was a former chairman of the Northern Ireland Civil Rights Association.

While chairman of Strabane District Council in 2001, he was central to a political storm after shaking hands with DUP colleague Thomas Kerrigan.

Sinn Fein's Martin McGuinness said Mr Barr "treated everyone with respect".

"He was courteous and cordial at all times. But I think most of all he was a champion of working class people," said the deputy first minister.

"He was an advocate for them, and a very effective advocate. We are all deeply saddened at his death."

Sinn Fein President, Gerry Adams, said that Mr Barr "championed major reform of Strabane Council, stood up for the rights of Strabane citizens, and was a stalwart of the republican struggle".

Strabane SDLP councillor Eugene McMenamin described Mr Barr as "a true socialist".

"Although our parties had different views, I can honestly say it was an honour to have worked with, and have known, a genuine man. Ivan Barr will be sadly missed," he said.

Mr Barr is survived by his wife Judy and seven children in Strabane.