Blair: Paisley turned from militant into peacemaker

Tony Blair has described Dr Ian Paisley as a "man of deep convictions", saying he "began as the militant" and "ended as the peacemaker".

The former Prime Minister, who presided over the historic Good Friday Agreement, said Dr Paisley would have been "very proud" of his work towards peace in Northern Ireland.

"Ian was a man of deep convictions. The convictions never changed. But his appreciation of the possibilities of peace, gradually and with much soul searching, did. He began as the militant. He ended as the peace-maker," Mr Blair said.

"Over time I got to know him well. He could be an uncompromising even intransigent opponent. But he was also someone who loved Northern Ireland and its people. He led them but he also followed them. When they said to him peace was thinkable, he made it possible."

The former Prime Minister added: "I don't suppose 40 years ago he would ever have thought that politically his life then would end as it does now. But I know he and Eileen would be very proud of his huge contribution to a peaceful future for Northern Ireland."