Martin McGuiness son of William and Peggy was born in Derry, Northern Ireland. He was one of 7 children and a devout Catholic and parishioner with his family of St. Eugene's Cathedral Parish.
Since boyhood he has been a die hard supporter of Manchester United (MAN UTD) soccer club and was himself very athletic and involved in Gaelic Football. He also won 3 Ulster Senior Football Championship medals as well as the Ulster Under 21 and All Ireland Under 21 Championship Medals.
In 1974 Martin married Bernadette (Bernie) Canning and the couple had 4 children, Fiachra, Emmett, Fionnuala and Grainne.
Martin was a proud member of the Irish Republican Army born in Derry, County Derry, Northern Ireland and served as their Director of Operations from 1976-1978 when he became the Chief of Staff until 1982.
He was convicted by the Republic of Ireland Special Criminal Court in 1972 after being found near a car containing explosives and ammunition and served 6 months after refusing to recognize the court. He declared his membership in the IRA without equivocation stating "We have fought against the killing of our people". He also stated "I am a member of Óglaigh na hÉireann and very proud of it". After a 2nd conviction related to being a member of the IRA Martin adopted a new strategy. In what was known as "The Armalite and the Ballott Box" where Sinn Fein would continiue the war.... but enter the political arena to bring about change in his beloved Ireland.
Shortly after being released from Portlaoise Prison Martin emerged as a young face of Irish Republicanism after the Civil Rights Movement exploded in the "Bogside" following 1969 marches and became more deeply involved following Bloody Sunday known as the Bogside Massacre on 30 January 1972
He was once asked by the Derry Journal Newspaper how he would describe himself and replied: "I am a product of British injustice".
Along with Gerry Adams (President of Sinn Fein) Martin was deeply involved in discussions with the British Government during the 1981 Hunger Strikes lead by Bobby Sands who was the 1st Hunger Striker to die on May 5 1981.
He was the Sinn Fein Chief Negotiator with Gerry Adams in talks that finally brought peace to Northern Ireland is what is called the Good Friday Agreement.
He was a candidate in every UK election from 1983 through 2010 and has served in numerous roles within the United Kingdom and Northern Ireland Governments.
His final role was Deputy 1st Minister for Northern Ireland Assembly working alongside the Fire and Brimstone 1st Minister Ian Paisley. The two became friends in spite of their political differences and were nicknamed "The Chuckle Brothers".
Political Achievements:
Leader of Sinn Fein May 8 2002 - January 9 2017
Deputy 1st Minister Northern Ireland Dec 2 1999 - Jan 9 2017.
Member of Legislative Assembly for Foyle May 6 2016 - Jan 26 2017.25 June 1998 - May 6 2016
Member of Legislative Assembly for Mid Ulster June 25 1998 - May 6 2016.
Member of Parliament for Mid Ulster May 1 1997 - Jan 2 2013.
Minister of Education Dec 2 1999 - October 14 2002.
Martin is also featured in the book Rebel Hearts by Kevin Toolis.
After feeling ill in December 2016 just prior to a planned trip to China. Martin learned he had a terminal illness. He was admitted to hospital on March 6 2017 following complications from treatment.
Martin died surrounded by his loving and heartbroken family at Altnagelvin Hospital,Derry, Northern Ireland after a short illness related to Amyloidosis and rare heart issues.
Sinn Fein President Gerry Adams announced "It is with deep regret and saddness that we have learnt of the death of our friend and Comrade Martin McGuinness who passed away in Derry during the night. He will be sorely missed by all who knew him".
CONDOLENCES:
While it is unlikely to have enough space to list all who share in condolences to the family, early sympathy messages were received from The Queen, Former President of USA Bill Clinton, Former taoiseach Bertie Ahern, Former British PM Tony Blair, Ian Paisley Jr., President of Ireland Michael D. Higgins. Sinn Fein Leader at Stormont Michelle O'Neill and current British PM Theresa May.
James Martin Pacelli McGuinness true Irish Man will be buried Thursday March 23 2017 following 2pm requiem mass led by Rev. Michael Canning at St. Columba's Church, Long Tower, Derry. Internment to follow at The City Cemetery, Lone Moor Road, Derry.
EULOGY: Past President USA Bill Clinton,Presbyterian Minister Rev. David Latimer also spoke to the congregation.
Martin's nephew Ordhan read a passage from Ecclesiastes 3:3, which included the tribute, ‘a time to kill and a time to heal’, acknowledging his uncle’s involvement in both violent conflict and peace process
GRAVESIDE ORATION: President Sinn Féin Gerry Adams
Also in attendance at the funeral:
Past 1st Minister of Northern Ireland Arlene Foster who received a welcome round of applause on entering the church.
Irish President Michael D. Higgins
Past President of Ireland Mary McAleese
Past Prime Minister of Britain Tony Blair,
Past Irish taoiseach Bertie Ahern,
taoiseach Edna Kenny,
Northern Ireland Secretary James Brokenshire,
Former DUP Leader Peter Robinson,
Chief Constable of Police Services N.I. George Hamilton
Ulster unionist Leader Mike Nesbitt
Nobel Peace Prize Winner & past leader of SDLP John Hume
Michelle O'Neill Leader of Sinn Féin at Stormont
Ex-SNP leader Alex Salmond and
Ex-Downing Street press secretary Alastair Campbell
Irish Singer Christy Moore sang the final song at the graveside... "The Time Has Come".
Martin McGuinness was laid to his final rest under the Derry sky, his funeral attended by thousands who lined the streets of Derry to say their final goodbye through their tears and applause, the respect the people he served showing both their gratitude and grief.
Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam.
MONTH's MIND:
Mass was celebrated with numerous dignitaries attending the 1st Month Remembrance in both Derry and New York.
A poem written by Martin was read by his daughter in law at the Derry service.
Fullerton's Dam by Martin McGuinness
Purple heathered hillsides clothe the peaty bogs
leaching streams of water swimming pools for frogs.
Down along the glenside a rich brown vein does run
to meet and greet another beneath the rising sun.
Here below twin bridges, the Crana springs to life
amid kamikaze midges where father found his wife.
At castle gates salmon waits out in the Swilly blue
for destiny and a leaper’s spate to bring her home so true.
A creator with an earthy face
decreed his plan would make this valley the perfect place
to gather raindrops in a lake.
The poem, Fullerton’s Dam, describes a reservoir near Buncrana which is named after former Donegal Sinn Féin councillor, Eddie Fullerton who was murdered by the UDA at his Inishowen home in 1991.
Mass at St. Patrick's Cathedral, New York:
It was organized by The Francis P. Beirne Division Nine, New York County division of the Ancient Order of Hibernians to allow the Irish American community the chance to reflect and pay their respects. Monday, April 24, 2017 at 6:30 pm.
The eulogy was delivered by former Senator George Mitchell who played a key role in the peace process as Special Advisor on Ireland to President Bill Clinton, who delivered a eulogy at Mr McGuinness' funeral in Derry last month.
The Song "Only Our Rivers Run Free" was sung by Cathy Maguire.
Martin McGuinness Honoured: August 4 2017
FORMER deputy First Minister Martin McGuinness was remembered at west Belfast's Féile an Phobail last night.
The Sinn Féin politician's sons Fiachra and Emmet attended a panel discussion at St Mary's University College about the Derry man's life and times.
Hosted by the festival's chairman, Danny Morrison, the panel included former Sinn Féin MLA Mitchel McLaughlin and the party's deputy leader Mary Lou McDonald.
A packed audience heard them discuss Mr McGuinness's contribution to republicanism and the peace process.
Mr McLaughlin said the former IRA commander's involvement in politics dated from the mid-1960s.
He said the separate shootings by British soldiers of two young men in Derry's Bogside on July 8 1971 left a strong impression on his friend.
"There was a particular incident that affected Martin very deeply and he referred to it throughout his life - that was the shooting by the British army of Seamus Cusack and Des Beattie," he said.
"And that I think was the singular even that actually convinced Martin that there was actually no peaceful way of resolving this issue (civil rights)."
The event also included musical performances from singer Bill Rolston and a short film about Mr McGuinness, who died in March.
A new portrait by Dublin artist Robert Ballagh was also unveiled.
Special Exhibition: August 9 2017
A PHOTOGRAPHIC exhibition which opens today in Derry casts new light on the personal life of the late Martin McGuinness.
Part of the Gasyard Féile, the exhibition will feature many previously unseen photographs from the McGuinness family’s private collection.
The former Sinn Féin deputy first minister died in March after a short illness.
Curated by the McGuinness family, “Martin: A Photographic Exhibition” was opened by his long-time friend, neighbour and former Stormont speaker Mitchel McLaughlin at the Gasyard Centre this afternoon.
The McGuinness family issued a general invitation to the public to attend the event.
In a statement released last night, the family said: “Martin was recognised all over the world, regularly pictured alongside international leaders and was one of the most photographed people in Ireland.
“Many aspects of his life were lived in the public eye and were captured and chronicled by the media. But to us he was a husband, father, grandfather and brother who lived for his family.”
Many of the pictures feature the former IRA leader leader's public and political life. However, there are also photographs of the Sinn Féin politician as a child, on his wedding day and with his wife, Bernie, and family and pictures taken in more recent times.
One photograph shows the late Mr McGuinness in relaxed mood with his wife Bernie at the foot of Mount Errigal in west Donegal.
The family said they chose photographs which showed Mr McGuinness’s “remarkable life.”
They said: “All show his warmth, spirit, humour, dedication to his beliefs and love for his family.”
A spokesman for the Gasyard Féile thanked the McGuinness family for sharing photographs from their private collection.
“Martin McGuinness was a proud supporter of the Gasyard Féile from the start and it is fantastic to have the McGuinness family curating this exhibition of truly historic photos,” he said.
The exhibition runs until August 15 2017
∼James Martin Pacelli McGuinness (Irish: Séamus Máirtín Pacelli Mag Aonghusa; was an Irish republican and Sinn Féin politician who was the deputy First Minister of Northern Ireland from May 2007 to January 2017. A former Provisional Irish Republican Army (IRA) leader, McGuinness was the MP for Mid Ulster from 1997 until his resignation in 2013. Like all Sinn Féin MPs, McGuinness practised abstentionism in relation to the Westminster Parliament. Following the St Andrews Agreement and the Assembly election in 2007, as Sinn Féin's Political Leader in the North, he became deputy First Minister of Northern Ireland on 8 May 2007, with the Democratic Unionist Party (DUP) leader Ian Paisley becoming First Minister. On 5 June 2008 he was re-appointed as deputy First Minister to serve alongside Peter Robinson, who succeeded Paisley as First Minister. McGuinness previously served as Minister of Education in the Northern Ireland Executive between 1999 and 2002. He was Sinn Féin's candidate for President of Ireland in the 2011 election.
Working alongside US Special Envoy George Mitchell, McGuinness was also one of the main architects of the Good Friday Agreement which formally cemented the Northern Ireland peace process.
On 9 January 2017, McGuinness resigned as deputy First Minister in a protest over the Renewable Heat Incentive scandal. He announced on 19 January that he would not be standing for re-election to the Northern Ireland Assembly in the 2 March 2017 election due to ill health. He reportedly suffered from amyloidosis, a condition that attacks the vital organs, and retired shortly before his death on 21 March 2017, aged 66.
Since boyhood he has been a die hard supporter of Manchester United (MAN UTD) soccer club and was himself very athletic and involved in Gaelic Football. He also won 3 Ulster Senior Football Championship medals as well as the Ulster Under 21 and All Ireland Under 21 Championship Medals.
In 1974 Martin married Bernadette (Bernie) Canning and the couple had 4 children, Fiachra, Emmett, Fionnuala and Grainne.
Martin was a proud member of the Irish Republican Army born in Derry, County Derry, Northern Ireland and served as their Director of Operations from 1976-1978 when he became the Chief of Staff until 1982.
He was convicted by the Republic of Ireland Special Criminal Court in 1972 after being found near a car containing explosives and ammunition and served 6 months after refusing to recognize the court. He declared his membership in the IRA without equivocation stating "We have fought against the killing of our people". He also stated "I am a member of Óglaigh na hÉireann and very proud of it". After a 2nd conviction related to being a member of the IRA Martin adopted a new strategy. In what was known as "The Armalite and the Ballott Box" where Sinn Fein would continiue the war.... but enter the political arena to bring about change in his beloved Ireland.
Shortly after being released from Portlaoise Prison Martin emerged as a young face of Irish Republicanism after the Civil Rights Movement exploded in the "Bogside" following 1969 marches and became more deeply involved following Bloody Sunday known as the Bogside Massacre on 30 January 1972
He was once asked by the Derry Journal Newspaper how he would describe himself and replied: "I am a product of British injustice".
Along with Gerry Adams (President of Sinn Fein) Martin was deeply involved in discussions with the British Government during the 1981 Hunger Strikes lead by Bobby Sands who was the 1st Hunger Striker to die on May 5 1981.
He was the Sinn Fein Chief Negotiator with Gerry Adams in talks that finally brought peace to Northern Ireland is what is called the Good Friday Agreement.
He was a candidate in every UK election from 1983 through 2010 and has served in numerous roles within the United Kingdom and Northern Ireland Governments.
His final role was Deputy 1st Minister for Northern Ireland Assembly working alongside the Fire and Brimstone 1st Minister Ian Paisley. The two became friends in spite of their political differences and were nicknamed "The Chuckle Brothers".
Political Achievements:
Leader of Sinn Fein May 8 2002 - January 9 2017
Deputy 1st Minister Northern Ireland Dec 2 1999 - Jan 9 2017.
Member of Legislative Assembly for Foyle May 6 2016 - Jan 26 2017.25 June 1998 - May 6 2016
Member of Legislative Assembly for Mid Ulster June 25 1998 - May 6 2016.
Member of Parliament for Mid Ulster May 1 1997 - Jan 2 2013.
Minister of Education Dec 2 1999 - October 14 2002.
Martin is also featured in the book Rebel Hearts by Kevin Toolis.
After feeling ill in December 2016 just prior to a planned trip to China. Martin learned he had a terminal illness. He was admitted to hospital on March 6 2017 following complications from treatment.
Martin died surrounded by his loving and heartbroken family at Altnagelvin Hospital,Derry, Northern Ireland after a short illness related to Amyloidosis and rare heart issues.
Sinn Fein President Gerry Adams announced "It is with deep regret and saddness that we have learnt of the death of our friend and Comrade Martin McGuinness who passed away in Derry during the night. He will be sorely missed by all who knew him".
CONDOLENCES:
While it is unlikely to have enough space to list all who share in condolences to the family, early sympathy messages were received from The Queen, Former President of USA Bill Clinton, Former taoiseach Bertie Ahern, Former British PM Tony Blair, Ian Paisley Jr., President of Ireland Michael D. Higgins. Sinn Fein Leader at Stormont Michelle O'Neill and current British PM Theresa May.
James Martin Pacelli McGuinness true Irish Man will be buried Thursday March 23 2017 following 2pm requiem mass led by Rev. Michael Canning at St. Columba's Church, Long Tower, Derry. Internment to follow at The City Cemetery, Lone Moor Road, Derry.
EULOGY: Past President USA Bill Clinton,Presbyterian Minister Rev. David Latimer also spoke to the congregation.
Martin's nephew Ordhan read a passage from Ecclesiastes 3:3, which included the tribute, ‘a time to kill and a time to heal’, acknowledging his uncle’s involvement in both violent conflict and peace process
GRAVESIDE ORATION: President Sinn Féin Gerry Adams
Also in attendance at the funeral:
Past 1st Minister of Northern Ireland Arlene Foster who received a welcome round of applause on entering the church.
Irish President Michael D. Higgins
Past President of Ireland Mary McAleese
Past Prime Minister of Britain Tony Blair,
Past Irish taoiseach Bertie Ahern,
taoiseach Edna Kenny,
Northern Ireland Secretary James Brokenshire,
Former DUP Leader Peter Robinson,
Chief Constable of Police Services N.I. George Hamilton
Ulster unionist Leader Mike Nesbitt
Nobel Peace Prize Winner & past leader of SDLP John Hume
Michelle O'Neill Leader of Sinn Féin at Stormont
Ex-SNP leader Alex Salmond and
Ex-Downing Street press secretary Alastair Campbell
Irish Singer Christy Moore sang the final song at the graveside... "The Time Has Come".
Martin McGuinness was laid to his final rest under the Derry sky, his funeral attended by thousands who lined the streets of Derry to say their final goodbye through their tears and applause, the respect the people he served showing both their gratitude and grief.
Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam.
MONTH's MIND:
Mass was celebrated with numerous dignitaries attending the 1st Month Remembrance in both Derry and New York.
A poem written by Martin was read by his daughter in law at the Derry service.
Fullerton's Dam by Martin McGuinness
Purple heathered hillsides clothe the peaty bogs
leaching streams of water swimming pools for frogs.
Down along the glenside a rich brown vein does run
to meet and greet another beneath the rising sun.
Here below twin bridges, the Crana springs to life
amid kamikaze midges where father found his wife.
At castle gates salmon waits out in the Swilly blue
for destiny and a leaper’s spate to bring her home so true.
A creator with an earthy face
decreed his plan would make this valley the perfect place
to gather raindrops in a lake.
The poem, Fullerton’s Dam, describes a reservoir near Buncrana which is named after former Donegal Sinn Féin councillor, Eddie Fullerton who was murdered by the UDA at his Inishowen home in 1991.
Mass at St. Patrick's Cathedral, New York:
It was organized by The Francis P. Beirne Division Nine, New York County division of the Ancient Order of Hibernians to allow the Irish American community the chance to reflect and pay their respects. Monday, April 24, 2017 at 6:30 pm.
The eulogy was delivered by former Senator George Mitchell who played a key role in the peace process as Special Advisor on Ireland to President Bill Clinton, who delivered a eulogy at Mr McGuinness' funeral in Derry last month.
The Song "Only Our Rivers Run Free" was sung by Cathy Maguire.
Martin McGuinness Honoured: August 4 2017
FORMER deputy First Minister Martin McGuinness was remembered at west Belfast's Féile an Phobail last night.
The Sinn Féin politician's sons Fiachra and Emmet attended a panel discussion at St Mary's University College about the Derry man's life and times.
Hosted by the festival's chairman, Danny Morrison, the panel included former Sinn Féin MLA Mitchel McLaughlin and the party's deputy leader Mary Lou McDonald.
A packed audience heard them discuss Mr McGuinness's contribution to republicanism and the peace process.
Mr McLaughlin said the former IRA commander's involvement in politics dated from the mid-1960s.
He said the separate shootings by British soldiers of two young men in Derry's Bogside on July 8 1971 left a strong impression on his friend.
"There was a particular incident that affected Martin very deeply and he referred to it throughout his life - that was the shooting by the British army of Seamus Cusack and Des Beattie," he said.
"And that I think was the singular even that actually convinced Martin that there was actually no peaceful way of resolving this issue (civil rights)."
The event also included musical performances from singer Bill Rolston and a short film about Mr McGuinness, who died in March.
A new portrait by Dublin artist Robert Ballagh was also unveiled.
Special Exhibition: August 9 2017
A PHOTOGRAPHIC exhibition which opens today in Derry casts new light on the personal life of the late Martin McGuinness.
Part of the Gasyard Féile, the exhibition will feature many previously unseen photographs from the McGuinness family’s private collection.
The former Sinn Féin deputy first minister died in March after a short illness.
Curated by the McGuinness family, “Martin: A Photographic Exhibition” was opened by his long-time friend, neighbour and former Stormont speaker Mitchel McLaughlin at the Gasyard Centre this afternoon.
The McGuinness family issued a general invitation to the public to attend the event.
In a statement released last night, the family said: “Martin was recognised all over the world, regularly pictured alongside international leaders and was one of the most photographed people in Ireland.
“Many aspects of his life were lived in the public eye and were captured and chronicled by the media. But to us he was a husband, father, grandfather and brother who lived for his family.”
Many of the pictures feature the former IRA leader leader's public and political life. However, there are also photographs of the Sinn Féin politician as a child, on his wedding day and with his wife, Bernie, and family and pictures taken in more recent times.
One photograph shows the late Mr McGuinness in relaxed mood with his wife Bernie at the foot of Mount Errigal in west Donegal.
The family said they chose photographs which showed Mr McGuinness’s “remarkable life.”
They said: “All show his warmth, spirit, humour, dedication to his beliefs and love for his family.”
A spokesman for the Gasyard Féile thanked the McGuinness family for sharing photographs from their private collection.
“Martin McGuinness was a proud supporter of the Gasyard Féile from the start and it is fantastic to have the McGuinness family curating this exhibition of truly historic photos,” he said.
The exhibition runs until August 15 2017
∼James Martin Pacelli McGuinness (Irish: Séamus Máirtín Pacelli Mag Aonghusa; was an Irish republican and Sinn Féin politician who was the deputy First Minister of Northern Ireland from May 2007 to January 2017. A former Provisional Irish Republican Army (IRA) leader, McGuinness was the MP for Mid Ulster from 1997 until his resignation in 2013. Like all Sinn Féin MPs, McGuinness practised abstentionism in relation to the Westminster Parliament. Following the St Andrews Agreement and the Assembly election in 2007, as Sinn Féin's Political Leader in the North, he became deputy First Minister of Northern Ireland on 8 May 2007, with the Democratic Unionist Party (DUP) leader Ian Paisley becoming First Minister. On 5 June 2008 he was re-appointed as deputy First Minister to serve alongside Peter Robinson, who succeeded Paisley as First Minister. McGuinness previously served as Minister of Education in the Northern Ireland Executive between 1999 and 2002. He was Sinn Féin's candidate for President of Ireland in the 2011 election.
Working alongside US Special Envoy George Mitchell, McGuinness was also one of the main architects of the Good Friday Agreement which formally cemented the Northern Ireland peace process.
On 9 January 2017, McGuinness resigned as deputy First Minister in a protest over the Renewable Heat Incentive scandal. He announced on 19 January that he would not be standing for re-election to the Northern Ireland Assembly in the 2 March 2017 election due to ill health. He reportedly suffered from amyloidosis, a condition that attacks the vital organs, and retired shortly before his death on 21 March 2017, aged 66.
Martin McGuiness son of William and Peggy was born in Derry, Northern Ireland. He was one of 7 children and a devout Catholic and parishioner with his family of St. Eugene's Cathedral Parish.
Since boyhood he has been a die hard supporter of Manchester United (MAN UTD) soccer club and was himself very athletic and involved in Gaelic Football. He also won 3 Ulster Senior Football Championship medals as well as the Ulster Under 21 and All Ireland Under 21 Championship Medals.
In 1974 Martin married Bernadette (Bernie) Canning and the couple had 4 children, Fiachra, Emmett, Fionnuala and Grainne.
Martin was a proud member of the Irish Republican Army born in Derry, County Derry, Northern Ireland and served as their Director of Operations from 1976-1978 when he became the Chief of Staff until 1982.
He was convicted by the Republic of Ireland Special Criminal Court in 1972 after being found near a car containing explosives and ammunition and served 6 months after refusing to recognize the court. He declared his membership in the IRA without equivocation stating "We have fought against the killing of our people". He also stated "I am a member of Óglaigh na hÉireann and very proud of it". After a 2nd conviction related to being a member of the IRA Martin adopted a new strategy. In what was known as "The Armalite and the Ballott Box" where Sinn Fein would continiue the war.... but enter the political arena to bring about change in his beloved Ireland.
Shortly after being released from Portlaoise Prison Martin emerged as a young face of Irish Republicanism after the Civil Rights Movement exploded in the "Bogside" following 1969 marches and became more deeply involved following Bloody Sunday known as the Bogside Massacre on 30 January 1972
He was once asked by the Derry Journal Newspaper how he would describe himself and replied: "I am a product of British injustice".
Along with Gerry Adams (President of Sinn Fein) Martin was deeply involved in discussions with the British Government during the 1981 Hunger Strikes lead by Bobby Sands who was the 1st Hunger Striker to die on May 5 1981.
He was the Sinn Fein Chief Negotiator with Gerry Adams in talks that finally brought peace to Northern Ireland is what is called the Good Friday Agreement.
He was a candidate in every UK election from 1983 through 2010 and has served in numerous roles within the United Kingdom and Northern Ireland Governments.
His final role was Deputy 1st Minister for Northern Ireland Assembly working alongside the Fire and Brimstone 1st Minister Ian Paisley. The two became friends in spite of their political differences and were nicknamed "The Chuckle Brothers".
Political Achievements:
Leader of Sinn Fein May 8 2002 - January 9 2017
Deputy 1st Minister Northern Ireland Dec 2 1999 - Jan 9 2017.
Member of Legislative Assembly for Foyle May 6 2016 - Jan 26 2017.25 June 1998 - May 6 2016
Member of Legislative Assembly for Mid Ulster June 25 1998 - May 6 2016.
Member of Parliament for Mid Ulster May 1 1997 - Jan 2 2013.
Minister of Education Dec 2 1999 - October 14 2002.
Martin is also featured in the book Rebel Hearts by Kevin Toolis.
After feeling ill in December 2016 just prior to a planned trip to China. Martin learned he had a terminal illness. He was admitted to hospital on March 6 2017 following complications from treatment.
Martin died surrounded by his loving and heartbroken family at Altnagelvin Hospital,Derry, Northern Ireland after a short illness related to Amyloidosis and rare heart issues.
Sinn Fein President Gerry Adams announced "It is with deep regret and saddness that we have learnt of the death of our friend and Comrade Martin McGuinness who passed away in Derry during the night. He will be sorely missed by all who knew him".
CONDOLENCES:
While it is unlikely to have enough space to list all who share in condolences to the family, early sympathy messages were received from The Queen, Former President of USA Bill Clinton, Former taoiseach Bertie Ahern, Former British PM Tony Blair, Ian Paisley Jr., President of Ireland Michael D. Higgins. Sinn Fein Leader at Stormont Michelle O'Neill and current British PM Theresa May.
James Martin Pacelli McGuinness true Irish Man will be buried Thursday March 23 2017 following 2pm requiem mass led by Rev. Michael Canning at St. Columba's Church, Long Tower, Derry. Internment to follow at The City Cemetery, Lone Moor Road, Derry.
EULOGY: Past President USA Bill Clinton,Presbyterian Minister Rev. David Latimer also spoke to the congregation.
Martin's nephew Ordhan read a passage from Ecclesiastes 3:3, which included the tribute, ‘a time to kill and a time to heal’, acknowledging his uncle’s involvement in both violent conflict and peace process
GRAVESIDE ORATION: President Sinn Féin Gerry Adams
Also in attendance at the funeral:
Past 1st Minister of Northern Ireland Arlene Foster who received a welcome round of applause on entering the church.
Irish President Michael D. Higgins
Past President of Ireland Mary McAleese
Past Prime Minister of Britain Tony Blair,
Past Irish taoiseach Bertie Ahern,
taoiseach Edna Kenny,
Northern Ireland Secretary James Brokenshire,
Former DUP Leader Peter Robinson,
Chief Constable of Police Services N.I. George Hamilton
Ulster unionist Leader Mike Nesbitt
Nobel Peace Prize Winner & past leader of SDLP John Hume
Michelle O'Neill Leader of Sinn Féin at Stormont
Ex-SNP leader Alex Salmond and
Ex-Downing Street press secretary Alastair Campbell
Irish Singer Christy Moore sang the final song at the graveside... "The Time Has Come".
Martin McGuinness was laid to his final rest under the Derry sky, his funeral attended by thousands who lined the streets of Derry to say their final goodbye through their tears and applause, the respect the people he served showing both their gratitude and grief.
Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam.
MONTH's MIND:
Mass was celebrated with numerous dignitaries attending the 1st Month Remembrance in both Derry and New York.
A poem written by Martin was read by his daughter in law at the Derry service.
Fullerton's Dam by Martin McGuinness
Purple heathered hillsides clothe the peaty bogs
leaching streams of water swimming pools for frogs.
Down along the glenside a rich brown vein does run
to meet and greet another beneath the rising sun.
Here below twin bridges, the Crana springs to life
amid kamikaze midges where father found his wife.
At castle gates salmon waits out in the Swilly blue
for destiny and a leaper’s spate to bring her home so true.
A creator with an earthy face
decreed his plan would make this valley the perfect place
to gather raindrops in a lake.
The poem, Fullerton’s Dam, describes a reservoir near Buncrana which is named after former Donegal Sinn Féin councillor, Eddie Fullerton who was murdered by the UDA at his Inishowen home in 1991.
Mass at St. Patrick's Cathedral, New York:
It was organized by The Francis P. Beirne Division Nine, New York County division of the Ancient Order of Hibernians to allow the Irish American community the chance to reflect and pay their respects. Monday, April 24, 2017 at 6:30 pm.
The eulogy was delivered by former Senator George Mitchell who played a key role in the peace process as Special Advisor on Ireland to President Bill Clinton, who delivered a eulogy at Mr McGuinness' funeral in Derry last month.
The Song "Only Our Rivers Run Free" was sung by Cathy Maguire.
Martin McGuinness Honoured: August 4 2017
FORMER deputy First Minister Martin McGuinness was remembered at west Belfast's Féile an Phobail last night.
The Sinn Féin politician's sons Fiachra and Emmet attended a panel discussion at St Mary's University College about the Derry man's life and times.
Hosted by the festival's chairman, Danny Morrison, the panel included former Sinn Féin MLA Mitchel McLaughlin and the party's deputy leader Mary Lou McDonald.
A packed audience heard them discuss Mr McGuinness's contribution to republicanism and the peace process.
Mr McLaughlin said the former IRA commander's involvement in politics dated from the mid-1960s.
He said the separate shootings by British soldiers of two young men in Derry's Bogside on July 8 1971 left a strong impression on his friend.
"There was a particular incident that affected Martin very deeply and he referred to it throughout his life - that was the shooting by the British army of Seamus Cusack and Des Beattie," he said.
"And that I think was the singular even that actually convinced Martin that there was actually no peaceful way of resolving this issue (civil rights)."
The event also included musical performances from singer Bill Rolston and a short film about Mr McGuinness, who died in March.
A new portrait by Dublin artist Robert Ballagh was also unveiled.
Special Exhibition: August 9 2017
A PHOTOGRAPHIC exhibition which opens today in Derry casts new light on the personal life of the late Martin McGuinness.
Part of the Gasyard Féile, the exhibition will feature many previously unseen photographs from the McGuinness family’s private collection.
The former Sinn Féin deputy first minister died in March after a short illness.
Curated by the McGuinness family, “Martin: A Photographic Exhibition” was opened by his long-time friend, neighbour and former Stormont speaker Mitchel McLaughlin at the Gasyard Centre this afternoon.
The McGuinness family issued a general invitation to the public to attend the event.
In a statement released last night, the family said: “Martin was recognised all over the world, regularly pictured alongside international leaders and was one of the most photographed people in Ireland.
“Many aspects of his life were lived in the public eye and were captured and chronicled by the media. But to us he was a husband, father, grandfather and brother who lived for his family.”
Many of the pictures feature the former IRA leader leader's public and political life. However, there are also photographs of the Sinn Féin politician as a child, on his wedding day and with his wife, Bernie, and family and pictures taken in more recent times.
One photograph shows the late Mr McGuinness in relaxed mood with his wife Bernie at the foot of Mount Errigal in west Donegal.
The family said they chose photographs which showed Mr McGuinness’s “remarkable life.”
They said: “All show his warmth, spirit, humour, dedication to his beliefs and love for his family.”
A spokesman for the Gasyard Féile thanked the McGuinness family for sharing photographs from their private collection.
“Martin McGuinness was a proud supporter of the Gasyard Féile from the start and it is fantastic to have the McGuinness family curating this exhibition of truly historic photos,” he said.
The exhibition runs until August 15 2017
∼James Martin Pacelli McGuinness (Irish: Séamus Máirtín Pacelli Mag Aonghusa; was an Irish republican and Sinn Féin politician who was the deputy First Minister of Northern Ireland from May 2007 to January 2017. A former Provisional Irish Republican Army (IRA) leader, McGuinness was the MP for Mid Ulster from 1997 until his resignation in 2013. Like all Sinn Féin MPs, McGuinness practised abstentionism in relation to the Westminster Parliament. Following the St Andrews Agreement and the Assembly election in 2007, as Sinn Féin's Political Leader in the North, he became deputy First Minister of Northern Ireland on 8 May 2007, with the Democratic Unionist Party (DUP) leader Ian Paisley becoming First Minister. On 5 June 2008 he was re-appointed as deputy First Minister to serve alongside Peter Robinson, who succeeded Paisley as First Minister. McGuinness previously served as Minister of Education in the Northern Ireland Executive between 1999 and 2002. He was Sinn Féin's candidate for President of Ireland in the 2011 election.
Working alongside US Special Envoy George Mitchell, McGuinness was also one of the main architects of the Good Friday Agreement which formally cemented the Northern Ireland peace process.
On 9 January 2017, McGuinness resigned as deputy First Minister in a protest over the Renewable Heat Incentive scandal. He announced on 19 January that he would not be standing for re-election to the Northern Ireland Assembly in the 2 March 2017 election due to ill health. He reportedly suffered from amyloidosis, a condition that attacks the vital organs, and retired shortly before his death on 21 March 2017, aged 66.
Since boyhood he has been a die hard supporter of Manchester United (MAN UTD) soccer club and was himself very athletic and involved in Gaelic Football. He also won 3 Ulster Senior Football Championship medals as well as the Ulster Under 21 and All Ireland Under 21 Championship Medals.
In 1974 Martin married Bernadette (Bernie) Canning and the couple had 4 children, Fiachra, Emmett, Fionnuala and Grainne.
Martin was a proud member of the Irish Republican Army born in Derry, County Derry, Northern Ireland and served as their Director of Operations from 1976-1978 when he became the Chief of Staff until 1982.
He was convicted by the Republic of Ireland Special Criminal Court in 1972 after being found near a car containing explosives and ammunition and served 6 months after refusing to recognize the court. He declared his membership in the IRA without equivocation stating "We have fought against the killing of our people". He also stated "I am a member of Óglaigh na hÉireann and very proud of it". After a 2nd conviction related to being a member of the IRA Martin adopted a new strategy. In what was known as "The Armalite and the Ballott Box" where Sinn Fein would continiue the war.... but enter the political arena to bring about change in his beloved Ireland.
Shortly after being released from Portlaoise Prison Martin emerged as a young face of Irish Republicanism after the Civil Rights Movement exploded in the "Bogside" following 1969 marches and became more deeply involved following Bloody Sunday known as the Bogside Massacre on 30 January 1972
He was once asked by the Derry Journal Newspaper how he would describe himself and replied: "I am a product of British injustice".
Along with Gerry Adams (President of Sinn Fein) Martin was deeply involved in discussions with the British Government during the 1981 Hunger Strikes lead by Bobby Sands who was the 1st Hunger Striker to die on May 5 1981.
He was the Sinn Fein Chief Negotiator with Gerry Adams in talks that finally brought peace to Northern Ireland is what is called the Good Friday Agreement.
He was a candidate in every UK election from 1983 through 2010 and has served in numerous roles within the United Kingdom and Northern Ireland Governments.
His final role was Deputy 1st Minister for Northern Ireland Assembly working alongside the Fire and Brimstone 1st Minister Ian Paisley. The two became friends in spite of their political differences and were nicknamed "The Chuckle Brothers".
Political Achievements:
Leader of Sinn Fein May 8 2002 - January 9 2017
Deputy 1st Minister Northern Ireland Dec 2 1999 - Jan 9 2017.
Member of Legislative Assembly for Foyle May 6 2016 - Jan 26 2017.25 June 1998 - May 6 2016
Member of Legislative Assembly for Mid Ulster June 25 1998 - May 6 2016.
Member of Parliament for Mid Ulster May 1 1997 - Jan 2 2013.
Minister of Education Dec 2 1999 - October 14 2002.
Martin is also featured in the book Rebel Hearts by Kevin Toolis.
After feeling ill in December 2016 just prior to a planned trip to China. Martin learned he had a terminal illness. He was admitted to hospital on March 6 2017 following complications from treatment.
Martin died surrounded by his loving and heartbroken family at Altnagelvin Hospital,Derry, Northern Ireland after a short illness related to Amyloidosis and rare heart issues.
Sinn Fein President Gerry Adams announced "It is with deep regret and saddness that we have learnt of the death of our friend and Comrade Martin McGuinness who passed away in Derry during the night. He will be sorely missed by all who knew him".
CONDOLENCES:
While it is unlikely to have enough space to list all who share in condolences to the family, early sympathy messages were received from The Queen, Former President of USA Bill Clinton, Former taoiseach Bertie Ahern, Former British PM Tony Blair, Ian Paisley Jr., President of Ireland Michael D. Higgins. Sinn Fein Leader at Stormont Michelle O'Neill and current British PM Theresa May.
James Martin Pacelli McGuinness true Irish Man will be buried Thursday March 23 2017 following 2pm requiem mass led by Rev. Michael Canning at St. Columba's Church, Long Tower, Derry. Internment to follow at The City Cemetery, Lone Moor Road, Derry.
EULOGY: Past President USA Bill Clinton,Presbyterian Minister Rev. David Latimer also spoke to the congregation.
Martin's nephew Ordhan read a passage from Ecclesiastes 3:3, which included the tribute, ‘a time to kill and a time to heal’, acknowledging his uncle’s involvement in both violent conflict and peace process
GRAVESIDE ORATION: President Sinn Féin Gerry Adams
Also in attendance at the funeral:
Past 1st Minister of Northern Ireland Arlene Foster who received a welcome round of applause on entering the church.
Irish President Michael D. Higgins
Past President of Ireland Mary McAleese
Past Prime Minister of Britain Tony Blair,
Past Irish taoiseach Bertie Ahern,
taoiseach Edna Kenny,
Northern Ireland Secretary James Brokenshire,
Former DUP Leader Peter Robinson,
Chief Constable of Police Services N.I. George Hamilton
Ulster unionist Leader Mike Nesbitt
Nobel Peace Prize Winner & past leader of SDLP John Hume
Michelle O'Neill Leader of Sinn Féin at Stormont
Ex-SNP leader Alex Salmond and
Ex-Downing Street press secretary Alastair Campbell
Irish Singer Christy Moore sang the final song at the graveside... "The Time Has Come".
Martin McGuinness was laid to his final rest under the Derry sky, his funeral attended by thousands who lined the streets of Derry to say their final goodbye through their tears and applause, the respect the people he served showing both their gratitude and grief.
Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam.
MONTH's MIND:
Mass was celebrated with numerous dignitaries attending the 1st Month Remembrance in both Derry and New York.
A poem written by Martin was read by his daughter in law at the Derry service.
Fullerton's Dam by Martin McGuinness
Purple heathered hillsides clothe the peaty bogs
leaching streams of water swimming pools for frogs.
Down along the glenside a rich brown vein does run
to meet and greet another beneath the rising sun.
Here below twin bridges, the Crana springs to life
amid kamikaze midges where father found his wife.
At castle gates salmon waits out in the Swilly blue
for destiny and a leaper’s spate to bring her home so true.
A creator with an earthy face
decreed his plan would make this valley the perfect place
to gather raindrops in a lake.
The poem, Fullerton’s Dam, describes a reservoir near Buncrana which is named after former Donegal Sinn Féin councillor, Eddie Fullerton who was murdered by the UDA at his Inishowen home in 1991.
Mass at St. Patrick's Cathedral, New York:
It was organized by The Francis P. Beirne Division Nine, New York County division of the Ancient Order of Hibernians to allow the Irish American community the chance to reflect and pay their respects. Monday, April 24, 2017 at 6:30 pm.
The eulogy was delivered by former Senator George Mitchell who played a key role in the peace process as Special Advisor on Ireland to President Bill Clinton, who delivered a eulogy at Mr McGuinness' funeral in Derry last month.
The Song "Only Our Rivers Run Free" was sung by Cathy Maguire.
Martin McGuinness Honoured: August 4 2017
FORMER deputy First Minister Martin McGuinness was remembered at west Belfast's Féile an Phobail last night.
The Sinn Féin politician's sons Fiachra and Emmet attended a panel discussion at St Mary's University College about the Derry man's life and times.
Hosted by the festival's chairman, Danny Morrison, the panel included former Sinn Féin MLA Mitchel McLaughlin and the party's deputy leader Mary Lou McDonald.
A packed audience heard them discuss Mr McGuinness's contribution to republicanism and the peace process.
Mr McLaughlin said the former IRA commander's involvement in politics dated from the mid-1960s.
He said the separate shootings by British soldiers of two young men in Derry's Bogside on July 8 1971 left a strong impression on his friend.
"There was a particular incident that affected Martin very deeply and he referred to it throughout his life - that was the shooting by the British army of Seamus Cusack and Des Beattie," he said.
"And that I think was the singular even that actually convinced Martin that there was actually no peaceful way of resolving this issue (civil rights)."
The event also included musical performances from singer Bill Rolston and a short film about Mr McGuinness, who died in March.
A new portrait by Dublin artist Robert Ballagh was also unveiled.
Special Exhibition: August 9 2017
A PHOTOGRAPHIC exhibition which opens today in Derry casts new light on the personal life of the late Martin McGuinness.
Part of the Gasyard Féile, the exhibition will feature many previously unseen photographs from the McGuinness family’s private collection.
The former Sinn Féin deputy first minister died in March after a short illness.
Curated by the McGuinness family, “Martin: A Photographic Exhibition” was opened by his long-time friend, neighbour and former Stormont speaker Mitchel McLaughlin at the Gasyard Centre this afternoon.
The McGuinness family issued a general invitation to the public to attend the event.
In a statement released last night, the family said: “Martin was recognised all over the world, regularly pictured alongside international leaders and was one of the most photographed people in Ireland.
“Many aspects of his life were lived in the public eye and were captured and chronicled by the media. But to us he was a husband, father, grandfather and brother who lived for his family.”
Many of the pictures feature the former IRA leader leader's public and political life. However, there are also photographs of the Sinn Féin politician as a child, on his wedding day and with his wife, Bernie, and family and pictures taken in more recent times.
One photograph shows the late Mr McGuinness in relaxed mood with his wife Bernie at the foot of Mount Errigal in west Donegal.
The family said they chose photographs which showed Mr McGuinness’s “remarkable life.”
They said: “All show his warmth, spirit, humour, dedication to his beliefs and love for his family.”
A spokesman for the Gasyard Féile thanked the McGuinness family for sharing photographs from their private collection.
“Martin McGuinness was a proud supporter of the Gasyard Féile from the start and it is fantastic to have the McGuinness family curating this exhibition of truly historic photos,” he said.
The exhibition runs until August 15 2017
∼James Martin Pacelli McGuinness (Irish: Séamus Máirtín Pacelli Mag Aonghusa; was an Irish republican and Sinn Féin politician who was the deputy First Minister of Northern Ireland from May 2007 to January 2017. A former Provisional Irish Republican Army (IRA) leader, McGuinness was the MP for Mid Ulster from 1997 until his resignation in 2013. Like all Sinn Féin MPs, McGuinness practised abstentionism in relation to the Westminster Parliament. Following the St Andrews Agreement and the Assembly election in 2007, as Sinn Féin's Political Leader in the North, he became deputy First Minister of Northern Ireland on 8 May 2007, with the Democratic Unionist Party (DUP) leader Ian Paisley becoming First Minister. On 5 June 2008 he was re-appointed as deputy First Minister to serve alongside Peter Robinson, who succeeded Paisley as First Minister. McGuinness previously served as Minister of Education in the Northern Ireland Executive between 1999 and 2002. He was Sinn Féin's candidate for President of Ireland in the 2011 election.
Working alongside US Special Envoy George Mitchell, McGuinness was also one of the main architects of the Good Friday Agreement which formally cemented the Northern Ireland peace process.
On 9 January 2017, McGuinness resigned as deputy First Minister in a protest over the Renewable Heat Incentive scandal. He announced on 19 January that he would not be standing for re-election to the Northern Ireland Assembly in the 2 March 2017 election due to ill health. He reportedly suffered from amyloidosis, a condition that attacks the vital organs, and retired shortly before his death on 21 March 2017, aged 66.
