A Belfast Sinn Féin councillor who was heavily involved in the IRA hunger strike protests has died in hospital.
Marie Moore (72), had been ill for some time before her death yesterday at the Royal Victoria.
The widow and mother of two sons and a daughter from Lenadoon was a life-long republican and community activist. She was the first Sinn Féin member to attain high council office when she became deputy Lord Mayor in 1999.
Belfast lord mayor Tom Hartley said: “Marie Moore was a dedicated representative of the people of not only her own community but the whole of Belfast.
“She worked tirelessly for her constituency, and always with diligence and dedication.” Ms Moore was born in the Clonard area of Belfast and comes from a republican background.
Her former home in Cawnpore Street was where IRA member Tom Williams was arrested. He was later hanged and buried in Crumlin Road Prison for killing a policeman in 1942.
Ms Moore was involved from the early days of the civil rights movement, witnessing the burning of Bombay Street in August 1969.
She organised one of the first local Sinn Féin groups (cumann) in Belfast, in Clonard. She later sat on the overall leadership of Sinn Fein (Ard Comhairle).
Known for her work with women and republican prisoners, she became secretary to Gerry Adams when he won the west Belfast MP seat. She served four terms on Belfast City Council, beginning in 1993.
Mr Hartley added: “ She was extremely proud to represent the Lower Falls as a councillor for the past 16 years, and was especially proud to have represented the entire city as deputy lord mayor.
“I wish to extend my deepest condolences, and those of everyone at Belfast City Council, to Marie’s family at this time.”
PA