Kieran McCarthy MLA said: “This is deeply tragic news and I want to pass on my deepest sympathies to the family and friends of Alex Higgins.
“He was a real superstar of snooker and will be forever remembered for his dynamic style of play.
“His life was not without its troubling times and it is deeply sad to hear of his passing. He will be very much missed by fans of snooker and people across Northern Ireland.”
ENDS