Paddy Coyne

It was with deep sadness that republicans in Galway and beyond learned of the death of Paddy 'Mark' Coyne on 9 October. He was aged 79. Paddy was a great gael and a very dear friend to the Republican Movement over the last 30 years - always there to help, always a bed for weary limbs and food for the hungry.

Paddy was a fisherman who loved the sea. He was also a great lover of traditional music.

His remains were given a republican guard of honour to the church and to Toorena Cemetery, where his Tricolour-draped coffin was laid to rest. Seán Ó Coistealbha, Galway West Sinn Féin candidate, gave the oration. Referring to the large attendance, he said: "There are three families present here today, Paddy's blood family, his neighbours, and his republican family."

Pat Treanor, on behalf of the Sinn Féin Ard Chomhairle, offered deepest sympathy to Paddy's wife Nora, sons Phil, Paddy, John, Maurice, Tommy, Aiden, Noel and daughters Pam, Barbara and Noreen.

Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam dílis.