Local Minister Heather Humphreys has paid tribute to former RTE Journalist Tommie Gorman who has died aged 68. Mr Gorman held a number of positions at the broadcaster including Northern Editor in a career that spanned 41 years.
In a statement issued to Northern Sound, Minister Humphreys said; "I am deeply saddened to learn of the death of Tommie Gorman, one of Ireland's greatest journalists. Tommie was a true gentleman and a good friend - someone I got to know well in recent years. Tommie's record in broadcasting was mirrored by his contribution to shaping Ireland's Peace Process. He always approached his job with a real sense of authenticity and his ability to gain the trust of people from all sides was unrivalled."
Minister Humphreys continued; "I have fond memories of meeting Tommie on many occasions, including at the Showgrounds in Sligo - home to his beloved football club Sligo Rovers. Today is a sad day for our entire country as we lose one of our most professional and outstanding journalists. I want to express my deepest sympathies to Tommie's wife Ceara, children Moya and Joe, as well as his extended family and his wide circle of colleagues and friends."