Social Democratic and Labour Party Leader Colum Eastwood MP has paid tribute to Baroness May Blood who has passed away aged 84.

Mr Eastwood said she would be remembered across the North, but particularly in west Belfast, for her work in the community and her contribution to the peace process.

Foyle MP Mr Eastwood said:

"The passing of Baroness Blood is a sad day for people right across the North, but particularly in her home city of Belfast where she made such a huge contribution. May Blood epitomised the ethos of the Labour movement, starting out at the age of 14 as an ordinary worker who saw the problems and unfair treatment that existed, particularly for women, and used her skills and formidable nature to secure change.

"Baroness Blood also played an important role as a community worker and spokesperson for people in west Belfast, where she worked to address the long-standing problems around unemployment and lack of opportunity that plagued people in the area. Through her political activism she played a key role in the peace process and leaves a lasting legacy that will long be celebrated and remembered."