Political leaders have paid tribute to noted historian Éamon Phoenix, who has died at the age of 69.
He was an academic at Queen's University Belfast, a long-time contributor to the Irish News newspaper and a familiar face on broadcast stations.
He died peacefully at home in Belfast after a short illness, surrounded by his family, and is survived by wife Alice, daughter Mary-Alice, son-in-law Stuart and granddaughter Nicole.
Taoiseach Micheál Martin said he was saddened to learn of the passing of Dr Phoenix, describing him as an "historian or rare talent".
In a statement, Mr Martin said Dr Phoenix's work "brought new levels of understanding" to Irish society’s past.
"A thorough gentleman, his passion for history and politics never failed to shine through in his published work or frequent media contributions," Mr Martin said.
Sinn Féin deputy leader Michelle O'Neill said she was deeply saddened to hear of Dr Phoenix's death.
"Éamon was a gifted communicator who has been publishing and contributing to many valuable and important pieces of historical writing, reflection and analysis for almost four decades," she said.
"His passion and enthusiasm for Irish history and politics brought it to life raising public awareness and interest across society for today's generation.
"His distinctive contribution to building the peace on this island was clear to all, and particularly through his regular columns in local newspapers and appearances on radio and television, and his important involvement with the decade of centenaries.
"His valuable writings and insights into our past leave a powerful legacy for future generations.
"My thoughts are with Éamon's family, friends and colleagues in academia and in the Irish News at this sad and difficult time."
DUP leader Jeffrey Donaldson said he was incredibly saddened by the news.
"Éamon takes to the grave an insight into the history of these islands that few will ever rival," he said.
"Our deepest sympathies to his wife, daughter and wider family."
The Minister for Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media Catherine Martin said: "Éamon was a greatly valued member of the Expert Advisory Group on Centenary Commemorations and the National Famine Commemoration Committee.
"Éamon skilfully delved into and illuminated the experiences of communities and people whose everyday lives were impacted by the transformative events of their time."
Dr Maurice Manning, Chair of the Expert Advisory Group on Centenary Commemorations, added: "Éamon Phoenix was a historian of great integrity and empathy, a skilled communicator whose life was dedicated to building bridges between communities and illuminating the history of his beloved Belfast."
