Northern Ireland

Books of condolence open for John Hume in Derry and Belfast

Derry City and Strabane District Council Mayor, Councillor Brian Tierney signs the Book of Condolence in the City's Guildhall for Noble Laureate John Hume.
Derry City and Strabane District Council Mayor, Councillor Brian Tierney signs the Book of Condolence in the City's Guildhall for Noble Laureate John Hume. Derry City and Strabane District Council Mayor, Councillor Brian Tierney signs the Book of Condolence in the City's Guildhall for Noble Laureate John Hume.

Books of condolence in memory of John Hume have opened in his home city of Derry and in Belfast for people to pay a personal tribute to the former SDLP leader.

The book in Derry's Guildhall was formally opened by SDLP Mayor of Derry City and Strabane District Council, Brian Tierney, while a digital version is also available to sign on the council's website.

Mr Tierney described the late Nobel Peace Prize winner as "a visionary, relentless in his pursuit of the future he wanted for the people of Derry and the people of this country".

The Mayor added: "He made many personal sacrifices along the way, but never lost sight of his ultimate ambition – an end to prejudice and a peaceful and prosperous society for all."

SDLP leader Colum Eastwood was among the first to add his name to the book in the Guildhall's Main Hall.

Ian Knox cartoon 4/8/20 
Ian Knox cartoon 4/8/20  Ian Knox cartoon 4/8/20 

Meanwhile, in Belfast City Hall, the book of condolence was opened by DUP Lord Mayor Frank McCoubrey, and signed by Deputy Mayor Paul McCusker of the SDLP.

Speaking of his former party leader, Mr McCusker said: "John was a giant in Irish politics who helped change all of our lives for the better, and his legacy of tolerance and mutual respect will stay with us forever. My thoughts and condolences are with the Hume Family."

Lord Mayor Frank McCoubrey added: "The passing of John is a very sad day for Northern Ireland. He was a shining light in our darkest days and played a pivotal role in bringing about our peace process. His hard work, determination and tireless enthusiasm to bring about peace was rightly honoured when he was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize alongside David Trimble. A magnificent achievement for his efforts and richly deserved."

SDLP leader Colum Eastwood signs the Book of Condolence in Derry's Guildhall.
SDLP leader Colum Eastwood signs the Book of Condolence in Derry's Guildhall. SDLP leader Colum Eastwood signs the Book of Condolence in Derry's Guildhall.