SDLP Leader Colum Eastwood has expressed his sincere sympathy following news of the death of prison officer Adrian Ismay who was targeted in a bomb attack in East Belfast last week.
Mr Ismay, a 52-year-old married father of three, had been released from hospital last week after suffering serious injuries when a bomb exploded under his van on Friday, March 4.
He was rushed to hospital this morning and later died of a suspected heart attack.
One man has already been remanded in custody accused of the attempted murder of Mr Ismay.
Detectives are awaiting hospital medical reports before deciding whether to launch a murder inquiry and press new charges.
Mr Eastwood, the MLA for Foyle, said: “News of the death of Adrian Ismay, a prison officer who was targeted in a bomb attack in East Belfast last week, is a huge blow to all of us who have stood against those with such murderous intent.
“My thoughts and the thoughts of the SDLP are with Adrian’s family and friends at this very difficult time.
“Violent dissident republicanism has declared its intent to escalate a campaign of murder and mayhem.
“Today we must all make a declaration of our intent to escalate our response. We will not be bullied, we will not be dragged back and we will not be broken.
“On the 100th anniversary of the 1916 rising, we must all commit to the values and principles of a modern Ireland.
“Those who oppose this, oppose the stated will of the people of this island and these islands never again to return to violence.
“They are in conflict not with the British Government, not with the British Army, not with the British State. They have taken up a fight against the Irish people and that is a fight that they will never, never win.
“Today we are reminded once again that despite our differences, we are one society, one people, united and indivisible in the face of terror.
“All parties and all people committed to peace across this island now have the opportunity to stand together and send that clear message to those pursuing a path of violence,” he added.