Allister pays tribute to late David McClarty

Mr Allister said: “I am greatly saddened to hear of the passing of David McClarty.

I wish to convey to his family my condolences and that of our party.

“David was one of the gentlemen of politics, but no push over. He stood up for what he believed in and though our politics differed in emphasis, we shared a mutual respect and some common causes.

“Indeed just a year ago we were to go on a joint meeting to discuss the future of the Northern Trust when he fell ill and the meeting had to be cancelled. Sadly, David made only one return visit to the Stormont chamber in July when he was greeted with a round of applause. Such was his popularity.

“He fought his illness with great courage and tenacity. Even how he faced his illness was a mark of the man.

“He will be missed on the ‘opposition’ benches at Stormont and in a much wider and community field.”