Statement by TUV leader Jim Allister:
“I was deeply saddened to hear of the death last night of Desmond Boal.
“Desmond was a unique talent in both politics and law.
“As MP for Shankill in the old Stormont Parliament he fought tirelessly for his constituents and was both a vocal opponent of Republicanism and an articulate champion of the Union.
“Desmond’s talent at the criminal bar was unsurpassed. Brilliant in cross examination and unrivalled in the skills of advocacy I as a young barrister learned much from watching him in action. It was a privilege to have known him for these last several decades.
“My thoughts and prayers are with his family and particularly his widow at this sad time. I hope that they will know the presence of the Father of Mercies and the God of all comfort as they mourn the loss of a loved one.”