Dúirt Siad: The death of President Hugo Chávez of Venezuela

President Michael D Higgins, Ireland

I was very sorry to hear of the death, after a long illness, of President Hugo Chávez of Venezuela.

President Chávez achieved a great deal during his term in office, particularly in the area of social development and poverty reduction. I extend my sincere condolences to the family of President Chávez on their great loss.

My thoughts and best wishes are also with the people of Venezuela as they come to terms with this sad news.

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Gerry Adams TD, President of Sinn Féin

President Chávez worked tirelessly to improve the lives of Venezuelan citizens. He dedicated himself to building a new and radical society in Venezuela. His progressive social and economic changes took millions out of poverty. He extended free health care and education for all citizens and his re-election last year with a huge majority was testimony to his vision.

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President Evo Morales, Bolivia

We are hurt. We are devastated. We feel Hugo Chávez is more alive than ever. He will continue being an inspiration for people who fight for liberty

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President Dilma Rousseff, Brazil

Today a great Latin American died. On many occasions, the Brazilian Government did not fully agree with President Hugo Chávez but today, as always, we recognise in him a great leader, an irreparable loss and, above all, a friend of Brazil. President Chávez will live on in the empty space that he filled in the heart of history and the struggle of Latin America.

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George Galloway MP, Respect Party, Britain

The death of Hugo Chávez at just 58 is a body blow for the poor and the oppressed, throughout Latin America and the wider world. He will be remembered as a man who lived and died for his people.

Hasta siempre, Commandante.

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Congressman José Enrique Serrano, Democratic Party, USA

President Chávez was a controversial leader. But at his core he was a man who came from very little and used his unique talents and gifts to try to lift up the people and the communities that reflected his impoverished roots.

He believed that the government of the country should be used to empower the masses, not the few. He understood democracy and basic human desires for a dignified life. His legacy in his nation, and in the hemisphere, will be assured as the people he inspired continue to strive for a better life for the poor and downtrodden.”