Press release

Secretary of State pays tribute to the late Nelson Mandela

Theresa Villiers expresses her sympathy following the death of South Africa's greatest son

• From: Northern Ireland Office and The Rt Hon Theresa Villiers
• Published: 6 December 2013

This was published under the 2010 to 2015 Conservative and Liberal Democrat coalition government

M Villiers said:

I send my deepest sympathy to the family and friends of Nelson Mandela at this sad time. He was revered through his life and will be remembered in death as one of the greatest ever campaigners for peace, justice and reconciliation.

He touched Northern Ireland in many ways and provided real inspiration to the peace process. His legacy should remind us that division can be overcome and a shared future is possible.

Published 6 December 2013