Northern Ireland

Jim Fitzpatrick had a 'commitment to making peace happen for all in the north'

Jim Fitzpatrick passed away on Saturday
Jim Fitzpatrick passed away on Saturday Jim Fitzpatrick passed away on Saturday

THE Irish News chairman Jim Fitzpatrick was last night remembered as man who had a "commitment to making peace happen for all in the north".

It is the latest heartfelt tribute paid to the father-of-eight, who died on Saturday following a short illness.

Requiem Mass for the 92-year-old was celebrated at St Brigid's Church in south Belfast on Tuesday when his family, friends and colleagues were joined by figures from the world of politics, business and journalism.

Read More:

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  • Tom Kelly reflects on Jim Fitzpatrick

Irish-American businessman Dr Francis Costello, who served in the Clinton administration, said Mr Fitzpatrick worked hard to "advance lasting peace and uplift everyone".

"It should also be underscored that Jim Fitzpatrick effectively used his platform as a businessman as part of his commitment to making peace happen for all in the north by promoting an international reach," he said.

Irish-American businessman Dr Francis Costello
Irish-American businessman Dr Francis Costello Irish-American businessman Dr Francis Costello

"I saw first-hand how he provided an open door to visiting corporate leaders coming to the Northern Ireland like John Cullinane as well as to Congressmen Joe Kennedy in their efforts to show how investment with fairness could advance lasting peace and uplift everyone.

"I also saw Jim at his low-key charming best in Boston promoting the opportunities Belfast and all of Northern Ireland offered as sound places to invest in and where their companies could grow from globally."