Book of condolences opened in Offaly to late John Hume

The Cathaoirleach of Offaly County Council Cllr Carroll has opened a book of condolences to the late John Hume.

The book is available here: https://www.offaly.ie/eng/Services/Corporate-Services/Book-of-Condolence/Book-of-Condolence-John-Hume.html

In a tribute, Cllr John Carroll said: “Over the weekend Ireland lost one of its most iconic figures of the 20th century. Coming to the fore as a larger than life figure in the Civil Rights movement in its quest for social justice and political equality, he was fearless in his search for peace right through the Northern conflict regardless of the consequences.

"In choosing to engage with Gerry Adams in the 1980s he faced many challenges from many quarters.

"He overcame all the obstacles be it in Dublin, Belfast, London or Washington to ensure the embryo of peace that he had created with Adams would be allowed take root. His conviction at that time that you must engage with the enemy to resolve conflict was absolute.

"His direct engagement led to a seismic shift in Irish politics, not just bringing a conclusion to conflict but creating a framework and providing an opportunity to build a just and lasting peace, what a legacy.

"He will be remembered as one of the dominant figures of the latter half of 20th century whose contribution to peace is incalculable.”