Unionists and nationalists united in praise of John Hume
British Prime Minister Boris Johnson and Taoiseach Micheal Martin voiced similar tributes to John Hume on behalf of the UK and Irish governments
John Hume’s contribution to peace building in Northern Ireland has been hailed across the political spectrum on both sides of the Irish Sea.
Unionist and nationalists in the region were united in praise for his efforts to end decades of sectarian conflict, while British Prime Minister Boris Johnson and Taoiseach Micheal Martin voiced similar tributes on behalf of the UK and Irish governments.
In Mr Hume’s beloved home town of Derry, current SDLP leader Colum Eastwood, who now holds the Foyle Westminster seat his political hero occupied for 22 years, said the island of Ireland had lost one of its greatest figures.
John Hume was quite simply a political giant. He stood proudly in the tradition that was totally opposed to violence and committed to pursuing his objectives by exclusively peaceful and democratic means.
— Boris Johnson (@BorisJohnson) August 3, 2020
“In the days ahead, Ireland will be united in mourning his loss,” he said.
“However, amidst that national mourning, it is equally true that the marking of John’s death also opens up a space to reflect on, and celebrate, the magnitude of his life.
“As part of that reflection of John’s work, never has the beatitude rung truer – blessed be the peacemakers.
“The life of John Hume will forever be a blessing upon this island since Ireland is now blessed by the peace he gifted to us all. It is the greatest legacy a political leader can bestow upon his country.”
Saddened to hear of the death of John Hume. A huge political figure in our society for many decades. A leader who took risks that ultimately helped bring about peace. He will be sadly missed. My thoughts are with Pat and his family circle and with his @SDLPlive family.
— Michelle O’Neill (@moneillsf) August 3, 2020
Stormont First Minister Arlene Foster said Mr Hume was a giant figure in the life of Irish nationalism and wider Northern Ireland.
“For many of my generation, he was a constant throughout our lives,” said the DUP leader.
“Whilst we disagreed politically, I always admired his steadfast abhorrence of violence, regardless from where it came.
“Whilst he was recognised across the world, there can be no doubt however that his loss will be most keenly felt in his home city.
“My thoughts and prayers are with John’s family and friends at this difficult time. We think especially of his wife Pat, his children and grandchildren. I hope they take some comfort from the peace he helped to create.”
Sincere condolences to Pat & the wider Hume family. A giant in Irish nationalism, John left his unique mark in the House of Commons, Brussels & Washington. In our darkest days he recognised that violence was the wrong path & worked steadfastly to promote democratic politics. pic.twitter.com/Ctkdfxa4Au
— Arlene Foster DBE PC #ProudofNI. (@ArleneFosterUK) August 3, 2020
Sinn Féin deputy First Minister Michelle O’Neill expressed her sadness.
“John Hume was a hugely important figure in our political history and a driving force in the Good Friday Agreement,” she said.
“He was a man of vision and committed to bringing about equal rights for all.
“John leaves behind a legacy of power sharing and peace.”
Former Ulster Unionist leader David Trimble, who was jointly awarded the Nobel peace prize along with Mr Hume, said he left an enduring legacy.
RIP Pathfinder - John Hume.
— Mark Durkan (@markdurkan) August 3, 2020
Changemaker & Peacemaker.
Principle, logic, stickability.
Engine for change, anchor for stability & torch for progress.
Respect difference, assert rights affirm democracy.
Europe #EU#GFA was his blueprint
& for much more#ThankYouJohnHume👍 pic.twitter.com/q9Aqfwv2gG
“He was a major contributor to politics in Northern Ireland and particularly to the process that gave us an agreement that we are still working our way through,” he said.
“That’s hugely important and that’s something that he will be remembered for in years to come.”
Former UK prime minister John Major praised Mr Hume’s efforts to win peace.
“Few others invested such time and energy to this search and few sought to change entrenched attitudes with such fierce determination,” he said.
“Those whose communities have been transformed into peaceful neighbourhoods may wish to pay tribute to one of the most fervent warriors for peace.
“He has earned himself an honoured place in Irish history.”
Táiniste Leo Varadkar also paid tribute to Mr Hume.
“Any attempt to summarise John Hume’s contribution to the people of the island of Ireland is sure to fall short,” he said.
“He was a once-in-a-generation leader whose vision for peace was only surpassed by his hard work in making that vision a reality.”
President Michael D Higgins said that Mr Hume "transformed and remodelled politics in Ireland".
“All of those who sought and worked for peace on our island of Ireland, and in the hearts of all, will have been deeply saddened by the passing of John Hume, Nobel Peace Laureate and Statesman," he said.
"John Hume, through his words, his astute diplomacy and willingness to listen to what was often difficult to accept but was the view of the ‘Other’, transformed and remodelled politics in Ireland, and the search for peace, with a personal bravery and leadership informed by a steadfast belief in the principles and values of genuine democracy."
