Former Speaker Alex Maskey honoured with portrait at Parliament Buildings

The former Stormont Speaker has been honoured with a portrait at Parliament Buildings.

Alex Maskey hailed political progress, but urged MLAs to “lead by example”, showing respect and civility to improve relations.

The Sinn Fein man was elected Speaker in January 2020 following the restoration of the Assembly.

His intended departure was delayed to 2024 when a political stand-off saw parties unable to agree to elect a new Speaker.

The portrait was painted in oil on canvas by Belfast artist Tony Bell, and will join those of former Speakers Lord Alderdice, Eileen Bell, Lord Hay, Mitchel McLaughlin and Robin Newton, in the Great Hall in Parliament Buildings.

First Minister Michelle O’Neill and former Sinn Fein president Gerry Adams were among those who attended the unveiling of the portrait at Stormont on Tuesday.

Mr Maskey, a former boxer who went on to become the first republican Lord Mayor of Belfast, thanked all those involved with the portrait and event, as well as all the staff who supported him as Speaker.

He said despite the political turbulence, he believes a lot was achieved, including the establishment of the persons with disabilities parliament and the passing of a “considerable volume” of legislation.

“One aspect of the role which gave me great hope for the future was the substantial international interest and goodwill shown toward us collectively,” he said.

“Diplomatic friends from far and wide showed that their goodwill toward us is real and is deep, and in my view that goodwill still exists and should be grasped.

“My main takeaway from my tenure was the excellent relationship with all of the parties, and this was the key to working together for the benefit of everyone.

“Respect is a word only if we don’t act upon it. Respect and civility will go a long way, and we should lead by example if we wish to serve our communities with integrity.”

Current Speaker Edwin Poots paid tribute to Mr Maskey for holding the office through a difficult time, including the coronavirus pandemic and a politically fraught period when the Assembly was not sitting.

He also recalled their shared experiences, including both being elected in 1998, and both being involved in the infamous “brawl in the hall” at Stormont when a number of MLAs were involved in an incident of pushing and name-calling in 2001 during political tension.

Mr Poots also praised Mr Maskey for his conduct when the Queen died, acknowledging the challenge to him as a republican, but said he ensured the Assembly had the opportunity to pay its respects and be fully involved in mourning arrangements.

He said that “demonstrated the measure of the man in that respect”.

“There is agreement across the Assembly that Alex brought impartiality, confidence and authority to the Office,” he said.

“I want to acknowledge that Alex is particularly well regarded amongst our Assembly staff, and that’s always a good thing.”