Sinn Féin President Mary Lou McDonald TD has extended her condolences on the passing of Shane MacGowan.

Teachta McDonald said:

“It is with great sadness that I have learnt of the death of Shane McGowan.

“Ireland has lost one of its most beloved icons and the world one of its greatest songwriters

“Shane was a poet, a dreamer and a champion of social justice. He was a dedicated Republican and a proud Irishman.

“Nobody told the Irish story like Shane – stories of emigration, heartache, dislocation, redemption, love and joy.

“Shane brought his musical unique style to all corners of the world, and his music will continue to be enjoyed for generations to come.

“Today we mourn his passing. He was one of the best of us. Ní bheidh a leithéid arís ann

“I want to extend my deepest condolences to his wife Victoria, his sister Siobhán, his extended family and very wide circle of friends.

“Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam dílis.”