News
Queen’s University Belfast has paid tribute to its former student, staff member and honorary graduate, Nobel Laureate Seamus Heaney.
The University’s acting President and Vice-Chancellor, Professor James McElnay, said: “Queen’s University is deeply saddened by the news of Seamus Heaney’s death and extends sincere sympathy to his wife Marie, and their three children Christopher, Michael and Catherine Ann.
“Seamus was not only a former student, professor and honorary graduate of Queen’s, but also a true friend of the University. Generous with his scholarship and his time, his warmth, humour and brilliance will be sorely missed.
“He was selfless in his contribution to Queen’s. Whether giving his name to the Seamus Heaney Centre for Poetry, crafting our University’s Centenary Stanza or contributing copies of his early works, Seamus asked for nothing in return.
“His contribution to the world of literature has introduced millions of people around the globe to the enjoyment of poetry and enhanced it for many more.
“As a truly inspirational citizen of Northern Ireland, he was the vanguard for a new generation of Irish poets, and at Queen’s we will ensure that his work continues to inspire many for generations to come.
“At Queen’s we have been truly privileged to have known Seamus as a student, staff member and Nobel Laureate and will miss him greatly.”
Professor Ciaran Carson, Director of the Seamus Heaney Centre for Poetry at Queen’s University, added: “Seamus Heaney's death will leave a void in all our lives. But his words have become part of our lives, and he endures in them. There is no poet in Ireland who has not been influenced by his example, and is in his debt; but so is everyone who has been touched by his poetry, and they are innumerable.”
Media inquiries to Communications Office. Tel: 028 9097 3091
