Statement by the Minister for Foreign Affairs, Dermot Ahern TD on the death of David Ervine MLA
I have heard with great regret of the untimely death of David Ervine.
Through crucial years of the peace process his has been a voice of reconciliation and common sense. His remarkable contribution to the search for a lasting peace on this island was nowhere more evident than in his courageous support for the Good Friday Agreement.
Having made his own political odyssey, David has worked patiently for years to transform Loyalism and to forge a new voice for his community. But he will be particularly remembered and respected for his readiness to reach out to others outside his own community and for his commitment to dialogue in place of old hatreds.
Those of us who got to know David through the peace process will sorely miss a man who brought a unique humanity and vitality to our deliberations. His loss at this time of intensive effort to restore the institutions will be keenly felt by his many friends.
To the members of his family I extend my deepest condolences on their bereavement.
ENDS+++
8th January 2007
