Sinn Féin MLA Gerry Kelly has expressed condolences following the death of lifelong Republican activist Brendan ‘Bik’ McFarlane.
He said:
“I have just learned of the sad passing of my friend and comrade Brendan ‘Bik’ McFarlane, a lifelong Republican activist who has died after a short illness earlier today.
“My first thoughts are with his loving wife Lene and their children, Thomas, Emma and Tina.
“Bik was a Republican activist all his life right to the end and gave all that he had to the struggle for a united Ireland.
“He was a huge figure within Republicanism and particularly at the time of the hunger strike in 1981 when 10 of our comrades lost their lives in the H-Blocks of Long Kesh.
“Bik was a talented singer, songwriter and musician, and previously sang at many events and occasions including at previous Ard Fheis.
“He will be sadly missed by the many, many people who knew, respected and loved him.”
Funeral details to follow.
