Euro parliament tribute to John Hume

European Parliament president Pat Cox today paid tribute to John Hume as an outstanding politician.

Reacting to SDLP leader Mr Hume’s decision to stand down as a Euro-MP in June, Mr Cox said he was an effective voice throughout Europe for peace in Northern Ireland.

”He is one of the European Parliament’s most outstanding, respected and longest serving members. His dogged commitment to non-violent conflict resolution has been steadfast and constant.

“He realised that international engagement was essential to break the inertia of insular isolation. His conviction that difference is not a threat but the essence of humanity is a message that has carried throughout Europe and beyond,” said Mr Cox.

He went on: “John has been an articulate and effective voice for peace in Northern Ireland, but beyond these borders he has been a European statesman. We, in the European Parliament, are very proud of John Hume and his work.

“In his retirement we wish him every happiness. We wish his wife Pat and their family well and we also thank them for the immense sacrifices they have made on behalf of this great statesman.”

“At a personal level, I will miss his presence and advice.”