Martin McGuinness' work for peace is what really matters

Derry has been moved by many republican funerals through the decades of strife and conflict, but yesterday’s spectacle was bigger than any one tradition. 

Martin McGuinness was seen off as a favourite son of this intimate city, rather than a republican leader. Divisions fell away as those from all traditions came together to salute a unique and complex man.

The most obvious sign of the journey Martin McGuinness travelled was in the streets around the Bogside and down to Long Tower church where throngs awaited his coffin: there wasn’t a policeman in sight. Where in the world would you find a city brought to a standstill by any event without sight of a police uniform to control and protect?