By David Hunter
The mother of Hunger Striker Bobby Sands has died, according to Sinn Fein.
Gerry Adams has described Rosaleen Sands as a strong, inspirational woman who bore immense pain - but stood by her son during the darkest of times.
Mr.Sands was the first of ten republican hunger strikers to die at the Maze prison in 1981.
It was from prison that he was elected an MP for Fermanagh South Tyrone a month earlier.
The Sinn Fein President said “I was extremely saddened to learn of Rosaleen’s death and, on behalf of Sinn Féin, I extend condolences to the entire Sands clan."
Mr.Adams continued “The dignity and strength she displayed was a testament to her character and her belief in standing up for what was right and just, even if that meant great suffering for herself, Bobby’s father John and their family.
“In many ways she epitomised what all the mothers of the hunger strikers endured and her sacrifice will never be forgotten."
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