Northern Ireland

Worlds of business, politics and GAA pay tribute to Newry businessman Brian Conlon (53)

Brian Conlon was chief executive of financial software firm First Derivatives
Brian Conlon was chief executive of financial software firm First Derivatives Brian Conlon was chief executive of financial software firm First Derivatives

THE worlds of business, politics and GAA have been paying tribute to Co Down entrepreneur Brian Conlon (53) following his death yesterday after a battle with cancer.

The chief executive of financial software firm First Derivatives was one of Ireland's most successful businessmen, having grown his company into a £1bn success story that employs more than 2,000 people around the globe.

He based his empire in Newry and the firm's non-executive chairman, Seamus Keating, said he "built a world-class business in First Derivatives".

"His drive, ambition and determination inspired all who had the privilege to work with him. This news is a profound shock to all of us."

Mr Conlon had revealed his cancer diagnosis in May and SDLP MLA Justin McNulty - a former employee - said he was "shocked and saddened" by news of his death.

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"Brian was a revelation in business. On a global stage he built a company to be proud of," he said.

Sinn Féin MLA Conor Murphy said he always found Mr Conlon to be "hugely committed to the Newry area" and the company had "given many young people from the area and across Ireland opportunities to gain employment and to travel the world".

DUP leader and former enterprise minister Arlene Foster said: "Brian was always very committed to creating high quality jobs for the local community and was a trail blazer in financial technology. A huge loss."

Mr Conlon was also described as a "great friend" of Down GAA, which described him as "one of the most talented footballers" to wear the county jersey in the 1980s before his career was cut short by injury.

"Brian still retained a great love for the GAA and for Down," it said.

"This year he was able to be present for our championship meetings with Armagh and Mayo and one could see the passion and love he had for the game as he met with former players and shared good memories.

"Quietly and without ceremony he made a difference to the county just as he made a difference for his home city of Newry, where he created employment and never ever forgot his roots."