TAOISEACH Leo Varadkar has described the murder of Lyra McKee in Derry as an attack on the nation.

He said the people of Ireland, North and South, chose peace, power-sharing and ever-close co-operation on Good Friday 21 years ago.

“There is no place nor any justification for political violence in Ireland, or Northern Ireland today.

“This was an act of fear. This was an act of hate. This was an act of cowardice. Those who carried it out, do not share the values of our nation, nor our Republic,” he said.

Speaking at Government Buildings in Dublin, Mr Varadkar extended the condolences of the Irish people to Ms McKee’s partner and family.

He said the young activist and journalist had “changed our lives as she lived and will do so again in death”.

He said people rejected those engaged in violence.

“And so, this was an attack not just on one citizen, it was an attack on all of us, our nation and our freedoms.”

Mr Varadkar added: “I want to express my solidarity with the people of Derry today. We stand with you as strong as your walls, and for as long as they stand. I want to acknowledge the work and the bravery of the PSNI and the emergency services.

“I echo the call that anyone who has information should come forward so that justice can be done.”

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