The Social Democratic and Labour Party (SDLP) MLA John Dallat has died at the age of 73, after a period of illness.
He had represented East Derry in the Northern Ireland Assembly since 1998, serving as deputy speaker from 2007 until 2016.
Mr Dallat began his political career in 1977 after he was elected to Coleraine Council, and went on to become the first nationalist mayor of the town in 2001.
SDLP leader Colum Eastwood MP has led today's tributes to Mr Dallat, describing him as "a fierce and forensic champion of people and the public interest as well as a good and loyal man".
Mr Eastwood said that John will be remembered for his defence of the public purse and his famous good humour.
"John entered public life at a time and in a place when it was difficult to be an SDLP representative. I know that, despite his tough exterior, he was often hurt when the hand of friendship he extended across the sectarian divide in the late 70s and early 80s on Coleraine Council wasn't always accepted.
"But it never stopped him trying and only strengthened his lifelong resolve to oppose violence and its supporters," he said.
Mr Dallat is survived by his wife Anne, his three children Helena, Ronan, Diarmuid and eight grandchildren.
Mr Eastwood added that his family "meant everything to him" when saying: "We're thinking of them at this difficult time and I hope they are comforted by the knowledge that he made an immeasurable difference."
DUP Leader and First Minister of Northern Ireland, Arlene Foster MLA said the party sends its sympathies to his family and colleagues in the SDLP at this very sad time. "We are deeply saddened to learn of the death of John Dallat. We came from very different political outlooks but he was always to the fore in speaking up for his constituents."
Deputy First Minister Michelle O'Neill added: "This is a sad day for Derry and the Assembly as we learn of the death of John Dallat."John was a prominent figure in the political landscape of East Derry for decades. He served the people of his constituency and beyond as a dedicated councillor, mayor, MLA and deputy speaker of the Assembly.
"John was held in high regard as a political representative, but he will also be remembered for being a teacher and friend to many. I send my sincere condolences to John’s wife, Anne, to his family, friends and political colleagues at this very sad time."
Alliance Leader and NI Minister for Justice Naomi Long said Mr Dallat "is a genuine loss to politics in Northern Ireland and I know his constituents will miss him hugely, too, as will all of us at the Assembly".
Tributes have also been paid by Pat Hume, wife of John Hume a founding member of the SDLP, and co-recipient of the 1998 Nobel Peace Prize expressed sympathy on behalf of herself and her husband.
"In difficult times, John never flinched in doing what was right for his community and his country. He was a first-class public representative" - Pat Hume
She said she was deeply saddened by Mr Dallat's passing.
"John Dallat was a loyal friend to John and I for many years. In addition, he was a loyal and faithful servant to the SDLP and the ideals for which the party stood for. He was SDLP to the core".
Mrs Hume added; "During a distinguished political career, he was always on the side of the underdog, defending those who were disadvantaged and standing strong against violence, sectarianism and unfairness in society."
"In difficult times, John never flinched in doing what was right for his community and his country. He was a first-class public representative."
East Derry Sinn Féin MLA Caoimhe Archibald said he was shocked to learn of Mr Dallat’s death.
"John Dallat served as a public representative for over 40 years as both a councillor and MLA.
"My thoughts and condolences are with his wife Anne, children Helena, Ronan, Diarmuid, his entire family and colleagues at this sad and difficult time."
The Ulster Unionist Party Leader Steve Aiken MLA also paid tribute on behalf of the party.
Mr Aiken said: "John Dallat diligently represented the people of East Londonderry both in the Assembly and on the old Coleraine Borough Council - to which he was first elected in 1977 - and this length of public service is itself a remarkable tribute."
