Vernon Coaker, Shadow Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, reacting to news of the death of the prison officer injured in a dissident republican bomb attack in Northern Ireland earlier this month, said:

“I am shocked to hear of the death of Adrian Ismay. My thoughts are first and foremost with his family and friends at this incredibly difficult time.

“The bomb attack in east Belfast last week was a despicable act that has no place in society. We must renew our efforts to rid Northern Ireland of terrorism.”