"As Minister for Education I would like to express my heartfelt sympathies to the family, friends and colleagues of Miriam Duggan (RIP), President of the ASTI.

"I last met Miriam at the ASTI conference in Wexford in April, where her life-long dedication and passion for education and inclusion was apparent to all who attended.

"Miriam displayed an enormous commitment to students, to her colleagues and the work of the ASTI. She was a strong leader and a tireless advocate for the education community.

"The thoughts of all involved in education are with her family, friends and colleagues at this time.

"Rest in peace Miriam."