Hume honour richly deserved says Dallat

Mr Dallat told the Times: “I was first introduced to John Hume in the Marian Hall, Kilrea and from the day and hour I met him I knew that he would bring peace to our bellowed land, a land which is cherished by Catholic, Protestant and dissenter.

“Even today there is still a tiny minority of people who still believe that violence can achieve political objectives. Whether they are so-called Republican or Loyalist they are wrong and they should take a leaf out of John Hume’s book of peace and partnership.

“I thank God I met John Hume all those years ago. I have been honoured to follow his advice and wisdom. I don’t regret for a moment joining the party he founded and have been happy to share his long journey towards what I pray is lasting peace on this island.

“For the sake of future generations John Hume’s role in Irish history has been an investment in the future unity of our people.

“It has always been his aspiration and hope that one day that the symbols of division, whether it is the so-called peace walls, the political border or indeed the division that still exists in the minds of people can be dispensed with. That is a hope that everyone can aspire to and the great honour that has been bestowed on him is richly deserved.”