Tributes have been paid to well known solicitor Pat Fahy who passed away last Thursday, October 31 after a short illness.

Mr. Fahy practised as a solicitor for more than 50 years until he fell ill last month.

Mr. Fahy along with Bernard Corrigan set up Fahy Corrigan Solicitors in Enniskillen in 1999.

A statement from Fahy Corrigan Solicitors said: “The partners and staff at Fahy Corrigan, Solicitors, express deep regret at the untimely death of Pat Fahy after a short illness.

“Pat was the driving force in establishing the firm back in 1999 and was an inspiration to us all.

“He was a staunch advocate in the pursuit of justice for his clients and will be sadly missed. Our deepest condolences go to his family at this sad time.”

Before proceedings commenced at Fermanagh Magistrates Court on Monday, tributes were also paid to solicitor Mr. Fahy.

District Judge Steven Keown paid tribute on behalf of the Courts Service on the passing of Mr. Fahy and condolences to his family and close friends.

He added that from the tributes already paid Mr. Fahy represented his clients with distinction and was fully committed in all he did.

Reggie Ferguson on behalf of the Fermanagh Solicitors’ Association described Mr. Fahy as a “fearsome opponent”.

“I am old enough to practice with and against him.

“He was a fearsome opponent but outside the court he was helpful and co-operative. A genuine defence solicitor he will be sorely missed in legal circles.”

Representatives from the Bar of Northern Ireland and the Public Prosecution Service also paid their condolences.

Bernice Swift, Director of Human Rights, Victims Group, Firinne also paid tribute to the solicitor who worked closely with the organisation.

“It is with deep regret we learned of our great friend Pat Fahy’s illness and untimely passing and we send our sincere condolences to all of Pat’s family, Legal colleagues and good friends.

“Pat Fahy was Firinne’s Solicitor whereby he helped investigate deaths which occurred during the Troubles and during this time he was always available, he was a true confidante he was a personal friend meaning his loss is truly heartfelt.

“Pat Fahy was an emblem for Human Rights who attended many of our Firinne AGM’s as guest speaker whereby he particularly highlighted the difficulties in past Troubles Historical Investigations.

“Pat always encouraged us and advised all families to continue their pursuit for truth and justice and with his exuberance said he was with us all the way. Ar dheis De go raibh a anam.”

At November’s Council meeting many tributes were paid to Mr. Fahy, who was described as “a formidable champion of human rights and justice.”

Sinn Féin’s Barry McElduff raised the issue of Mr Fahy’s passing and extended sympathies to his family, friends and professional colleagues in his legal practice, and requested council set a letter of condolence.

He outlined the great service provided by Mr Fahy to the family of murdered Trillick Independent Councillor Patrick Kelly.

Independent councillors Bernice Swift and Josephine Deehan along with the DUP’s Mark Buchanan also added tributes to the solicitor.

Councillor Buchanan said: “I knew Pat and he was well-known in Drumquin.

“I did the charity walk with him only a short time ago, and I am shocked by his sudden passing.

“He was a formidable force who made no bones about leaving no stone unturned.”

Chairperson Councillor Siobhan Currie advised a letter would be sent out reflecting the council’s condolences, before calling on all present to stand for a minute’s silence.

Mr. Fahy’s funeral took place on Sunday, November 3 at the 11am Requiem Mass in St Patrick’s Church, Langfield, Drumquin.