Taoiseach describes Hume as 'a true Irish hero'

The Taoiseach Bertie Ahern called John Hume ‘‘a true Irish hero,’’ and greeted his decision to quit as leader of the SDLP ‘‘with a sense of sadness - but also of immense gratitude for his magnificent public service’’.

Mr Ahern added: ‘‘For over 30 years, John Hume has served his party and constituency and laboured tirelessly in the search for a lasting peace on this island.