THE family of veteran SDLP politician John Dallat have announced details of the route to be taken by his funeral so that people can pay their respects while observing social distancing guidelines.
Mr Dallat (73) died on Tuesday morning following a long battle with cancer. A former school teacher, he served as an SDLP representative since 1977, first as councillor in Coleraine and later as an assembly member for East Derry. He was also a former deputy speaker of the assembly.
Mr Dallat’s funeral Mass will take place at St Mary’s church, Drumagarner, Kilrea tomorrow at noon. Due to government and diocesan coronavirus guidelines, the former assembly member’s home and funeral is strictly private.
However, Mr Dallat’s family has suggested that anyone wishing to pay their respects can stand along the route of the funeral from his home to the church.
"The family deeply regret that due to the government and diocesan guidelines, the house and funeral are strictly private. John’s funeral will leave from his late residences, 8 Gortmacrane Road on Thursday at approximately 11.30am travelling via the Boveedy Road allowing friend and neighbours the opportunity to stand along the route and pay their respects whilst maintaining social distancing," they said in a statement.
A memorial Mass will be celebrated at a later date.
Friends and colleagues of the late assembly member have continued to pay tribute. Deputy First Minister, Michele O’Neill said Mr Dallat was held in high regard.
“This is a sad day for Derry and the assembly as we learn of the death of John Dallat. John was a prominent figure in the political landscape of east Derry for decades. He served the people of the constituency and beyond as a dedicated councillor, mayor, MLA and deputy speaker of the assembly,” she said.
Mr Dallat’s SDLP colleague, Mark H Durkan said he was heartbroken at news saying he had dedicated his life to public service.
“He had a very sharp mind and worked tirelessly to build peace and in pursuit of justice, courageously standing up to paramilitaries and threats to himself and his family,” Mr Durkan said.
His former SDLP colleagues on Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council said Mr Dallat was their “mentor and role model”.
