Ulster Unionist Party Leader Mike Nesbitt MLA has paid tribute to Sir John Gorman, describing the former Ulster Unionist MLA and War Hero as “one of a kind.”
Mr Nesbitt said:
“I was extremely saddened to learn of the death of Sir John Gorman.
“It is rather poignant that on the very day we complete a European Election count to return Northern Ireland’s MEPs to Brussels, we should learn of the death of a man who liberated that city 70 years ago.
“Sir John achieved success in a number of fields. He was a war hero who was awarded the Military Cross for his actions in Normandy. He was a great public servant who spent 17 years in the RUC and was Chair of the Housing Executive. More recently he was an Ulster Unionist MLA representing North Down, was deputy speaker of the Stormont Assembly and a leading catholic unionist.
“I had the pleasure of working with Sir John when he was Director of the Institute of Directors. I saw at first hand just how impressive a character he was and Northern Ireland owes him a great debt.
“The last time I was with him was at a branch meeting of the Party in Killyleagh last year. He was barely mobile and said he was there simply to support me. I was humbled by that gesture and in his death I am inspired to deliver better politics as a tribute to his memory.”
“He truly was one of a kind and we are all the poorer for his passing. My deepest sympathies go out to his family and many friends.”