Hundreds gather for funeral of republican Bobby Storey

A large crowd of mourners has gathered in west Belfast for the funeral service for veteran republican Bobby Storey.

The former leading IRA member died earlier this month at the age of 64 following an unsuccessful lung transplant.

Sinn Fein president Mary Lou McDonald, vice president Michelle O’Neill and former president Gerry Adams were among hundreds in the Andersonstown Road area on Tuesday morning as the cortege left Mr Storey’s home and travelled to St Agnes’ church.

Bobby Storey funeral
Bobby Storey funeral

The coffin was draped in an Irish tricolour.

Following funeral Mass, the cortege will proceed to the republican plot at Milltown cemetery where Mr Adams is expected to deliver an oration.

Mr Storey was a highly influential presence within his community throughout the Troubles and subsequent peace process.

Bobby Storey funeral
Bobby Storey funeral

Stormont finance minister Conor Murphy, North Belfast MLA Gerry Kelly and Donegal TD Pearse Doherty were among other high-profile Sinn Fein figures who attended.

Former Sinn Fein MEP and current Foyle MLA Martina Anderson was part of a guard of honour formed for Mr Storey outside the church.

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