News of the former DUP leader's passing has been confirmed by his wife Eileen this afternoon.
Dr Paisley became a peacemaker in Northern Ireland when he entered government with Sinn Fein – after a career leading opposition to any deal with the IRA.
Former Tipperary Minister of State Martin Manseragh – who played a key role in the peace process – described his death as the passing of an era.
He said Ian Paisley was a dominating figure in Northern Ireland for better or for worse over the last 50 years.
Northern Ireland Deputy First Minister, Sinn Féin's Martin McGuinness has reacted to the death of Ian Paisley saying he has “lost a friend”.
