Former Northern Ireland leader Dr Ian Paisley dies

Former Democratic Unionist Party leader Dr Ian Paisley has died, his wife Eileen said today.
Dr Ian Paisley, who has died, his wife Eileen said today. Pic: Paul Faith/PA WireDr Ian Paisley, who has died, his wife Eileen said today. Pic: Paul Faith/PA Wire
Dr Ian Paisley, who has died, his wife Eileen said today. Pic: Paul Faith/PA Wire

Eileen Paisley said the family was heartbroken.

Dr Paisley was a firebrand fundamentalist Protestant preacher and politician who led opposition to compromise with the IRA for decades in Northern Ireland.

He became a peacemaker when he entered government with Sinn Fein at Stormont as first minister following a landmark deal.

He has been ill for some time.