Mickey Brady hailed as ‘champion of people’ after death of former Sinn Fein MP

Sat, 17 Jan, 2026 - 09:35

By Rebecca Black, Press Association

Tributes have been paid to former Sinn Féin MP Mickey Brady following his death.

The 75-year-old from Newry served as an MLA for the Newry and Armagh constituency from 2007 to 2015 and MP from 2015 to 2024.

Sinn Féin president Mary-Lou McDonald said they have “lost one of the very best”.

💔 Slán le mo chara Mickey Brady. We have lost one of the very best. A lifelong Republican activist, a champion of people and community, a dedicated public representative as an MLA and MP, utterly committed to his home place of Newry and Armagh. He was believer in a better… pic.twitter.com/WmigBFCVvr

— Mary Lou McDonald (@MaryLouMcDonald) January 17, 2026

“A lifelong Republican activist, a champion of people and community, a dedicated public representative as an MLA and MP, utterly committed to his home place of Newry and Armagh,” she said.

“He was a believer in a better future, a United Ireland and an equal society.

“Most of all, Mickey Brady was a devoted husband, father and grandfather. Today our thoughts and prayers are with his wife Caroline, his family and all those who loved him.”

Michelle O’Neill with Mickey Brady in 2023. Photo: PA.

First Minister and Sinn Féin vice-president Michelle O’Neill expressed sadness at the death of a “dear friend”.

“Mickey was a lifelong champion for the people of Newry and Armagh, dedicating more than five decades of his life to community and political activism,” she said.

“As an Irish Republican, involved from as far back as the civil rights movement, Mickey spoke with great pride when reflecting on the strides made to ensure fairness for his community and towards national unification.

“I will always remember Mickey for his sharp wit and endless stories.

“He had a rare ability to lift spirits and bring smiles wherever he went.

“He was a gentleman and a deeply insightful, knowledgeable and committed political activist.

“My thoughts are with his wife Caroline, daughter Saoirse and sons Michael, Sean and Niall, stepchildren and wider family.”