The death occurred this week of former editor of the Connacht Tribune, Mr John Cunningham.
Among those who paid tribute to Mr Cunningham this week was Minister of State Michael Ring. “I wish to offer my sincere condolences to the Cunningham family following the sad news of John's passing,” Minister Ring said. “He had a distinguished career in journalism as recognised by the many awards he received for his work. His lecturing work for NUIG's postgraduate journalism course for many years has helped shape a whole generation of journalists in Ireland.
“I knew John not just personally, but as an excellent and fair editor during his time at the Connacht Tribune and I offer my sympathies to his wife Nuala and to his sons at this sad time.”
Fianna Fail deputy leader Éamon Ó Cuív said: “It was with deep regret that I heard of the death of John Cunningham, long time editor of the Connacht Tribune. John was one of the best and fairest journalists I have ever met. He was a man of absolute integrity and honesty, and was very conscious of the importance of ethics in journalism.
“As a friend, John was engaging, witty, and good company. Over the years we talked many times on the phone and met on many occasions. I always felt refreshed after our discussions which often ranged over a wide range of subjects. Only a few weeks ago, he rang me about a piece he was writing and was looking for some insight into the background of the story.
”I know many people will miss him, as I will, but great as our loss is, the loss to Nuala, his wife and his sons Shane, Gary, Ivor and Enda is inestimably greater.”
