East Belfast TUV candidate John Ross said:
“As the nation said a sad final farewell to Dennis Hutchings today, it is fitting that here in Northern Ireland we reflect on the upright and decent man Dennis was.
“Despite the turmoil and pain that Dennis suffered in his twilight years, as a result of his distinguished service in Northern Ireland, he never let that diminish the respect, and as stated by Johnny Mercer in his eulogy today, his love for the people of Northern Ireland.
“Dennis epitomised dignity, it was humbling to speak to him, when he was in Northern Ireland, prepared to the end to defend his innocence and his honour. He could so easily, through his ailing health, have taken the advice of doctors that he was unfit to stand trial. It is testimony to his resolve and courage that he chose not to, a decision that sadly resulted in him in dying alone, far from his loving family in a Belfast hospital.
“Dennis touched the hearts of many and will never be forgotten by his many friends in Northern Ireland.”