Statement by Tánaiste Simon Coveney on death of Ivan Cooper
News
26 June 2019"It was with great sadness that I learned of the death of Ivan Cooper. On behalf of the Government, I want to expresses our condolences to Ivan’s wife, Frances, his daughters and wider family.
"As one of the early leaders of the civil rights movement in Derry in the 1960’s and throughout his political career, Ivan Cooper was a champion for justice, dignity and a place in society for all, regardless of background or creed.
"Ivan’s legacy is one of courage and determination in overcoming injustice, through peaceful, democratic means. His leadership and example in the Civil Rights Movement was so important in showing that equality and mutual respect should be the basis for peace and progress in Northern Ireland.
"Ivan Cooper’s life and his selfless dedication to these principles should serve as reminder to political leaders today of their responsibility to protect the peace and sustain the progress that has been achieved by reaching an agreement to operate all of the institutions of Good Friday Agreement again."
