Tributes paid Brian Friel - ‘a genius who walked amongst us’

President Michael D Higgins led tributes to his friend, playwright Brian Friel who died yesterday at his home in Greencastle, Co Donegal, at the age of 86.

“His legacy to the Irish people is immense,” said the President, noting that Friel will be remembered as a great Irishman and one of the giants of Irish literature.

Brian Friel's wondrous plays outlive him. I shall always be glad I could thank him for them, in Derry two years back. pic.twitter.com/MktQKM6Cs2

— Ian McKellen (@IanMcKellen) October 2, 2015