A portrait of the late Senator Billy Fox has been unveiled in Leinster House today to mark the 50th anniversary of his death.
The portrait was unveiled by the Cathaoirleach of the Seanad Senator Jerry Buttimer and Taoiseach Simon Harris.
Billy Fox from Cortubber in Castleblayney was murdered by the IRA during a raid on his fiancée's family home near Clones. The 12th of March last marked the 50th anniversary of Mr Fox's death at the age of 35. Billy Fox was the only member of the Oireachtas to be killed during the Troubles.
This event follows on from the 50th commemorative event that was held earlier this year in Bawn and like that day Taoiseach Simon Harris will be unveiling the portrait. Philip Kelly county chairman for Fine Gael says it's fitting that the state honour the late Senator Fox in this way and his family are proud to be associated with this historic occasion.
Mr Buttimer says this memorial will act a reminder to people for generations to come that visit Leinster House that the Fine Gael Senator was killed during the very difficult times for the island of Ireland. Meanwhile speaking to Northern Sound, Minister Heather Humphreys said today's event is about remembering the dark days of the troubles but it is also about looking towards the future.
