It was announced earlier today that Prince Philip had died aged 99.  Since the news broke, President of Ireland Michael D Higgins has released a statement sending his condolences to Queen Elizabeth II. The statement reads: "I have learnt with great sadness of the death of HRH Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh. On behalf of the people of Ireland, I wish to convey my condolences to Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth, her children, her extended family and the people of the United Kingdom. "For over sixty years, and as husband to Britain’s longest-serving monarch, Prince Philip served the British people with an unfailing commitment and devotion to duty. In the course of his long service, he frequently brought an air of informality to otherwise formal occasions. His distinctive presence and unique sense of humour put participants at ease and always engaged those who encountered him." https://twitter.com/PresidentIRL/status/1380507884832821256 The statement continues, "Prince Philip an active supporter of many charities and worthwhile causes, was far-seeing in being an early advocate for protecting the environment. Likewise, the Duke of Edinburgh Awards provided for many generations of young people and those of diverse backgrounds a very effective focus for citizen engagement. I was very pleased when his scheme, the Duke of Edinburgh Award, and our own Gaisce, the President’s Award, were able to co-operate in the sharing and recognition of awards in Northern Ireland and elsewhere. "Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam dílis." Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip visited Ireland in 2011 and visited places such as the Rock of Cashel in Co Tipperary and Croke Park. The Royal Family announced the news earlier today, writing on Twitter, "It is with deep sorrow that Her Majesty The Queen has announced the death of her beloved husband, His Royal Highness The Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh. "His Royal Highness passed away peacefully this morning at Windsor Castle." READ NEXT: Hairdressers and shops could reopen in May for those fully vaccinated

Feature image via President of Ireland on Twitter.