National Union of Journalists, Irish Executive Council
The Irish Executive Council of the National Union of Journalists has learned of the murder of Martin O'Hagan with shock and outrage.
We extend our deepest sympathy to his family, and to his colleagues on the Sunday World. A Book of Condolences will be opened to the public on Monday (October 1st) in Liberty Hall, Dublin.
Martin, who was secretary of the union's Belfast and District Branch, has been a staunch defender of workers' rights all his working life, serving in positions at both Chapel and branch level.
Journalists in Northern Ireland have played a crucial role not only in informing the public of events but in highlighting the realities of sectarianism and terrorism. Like his colleague, Jim Campbell, who has also been a target of violence, Martin has been a journalist of singular courage in an environment which demands our members to expose themselves to danger on a daily basis from those who reject democracy.
Mary Maher, Cathaoirleach