Hume hails Haughey's positive contribution to peace

Ex-SDLP leader and Nobel Peace Prize laureate John Hume said the former Taoiseach made a positive contribution to peace in the North.

“Obviously it is a sad day for the South (of Ireland) and for Charles Haughey’s family,” he said.

“I extend my deepest sympathy to his wife and family.

“Peace and justice in the North of Ireland was always at the top of the agenda for Charles Haughey and when I started to talk to Gerry Adams, he strongly supported me.

“He worked very closely with me in preparation for the whole movement to get lasting peace and an end to violence with the Downing Street Declaration and he fully briefed his successor Albert Reynolds.

“Charles Haughey made a very positive contribution to the ending of violence and bringing peace to our streets.”