Fergus Finlay: John Hume’s contribution to Irish peace, and to Ireland, unique and unmeasurable

He was the greatest advocate for peace based on mutual respect this country had ever known, writes Fergus Finlay

John Hume at the funeral of former president of Ireland Patrick Hillery on April 16, 2008. Picture: Gareth Chaney

It is perhaps an impertinence to suggest the two words that should be carved largest on John Hume’s headstone, but I’ll do it anyway. 

John Hume wasn’t just a peacemaker. He was the peacemaker.