Dour but fair - James Molyneaux

ULSTER Unionist Party leader James Molyneaux — 1979 to 1995 — hardly radiated charisma, indeed he came to characterise the dour, uncompromising face of trenchant Ulster Unionism. He died yesterday aged 94.

Later known as Lord Molyneaux of Killead, he is unlikely to be remembered as a major figure in North-South relations. Nevertheless, his commitment to peaceful democracy, eventually at least, should not be quickly or easily forgotten. It should be remembered that when offered a choice between the violent bigotry of some of his supporters and the unavoidable compromises brought by an ever more forceful democracy he chose the higher path, the one that eventually, tortuously led to the peace we all enjoy today.

If anything, his life and work underline the eternal truth that achievements realised through compromise and mutual respect are far more likely to endure than those brought about at the point of a gun. James Molyneaux was an honourable man whose experiences in World War II made him reject violence and for that we should all be grateful.