News broke that SDLP leader and Nobel Laureate John Hume had passed away this morning. Confirmed by a statement from John’s family, tributes have been pouring in for the former politician all day.
Viewers are advised that there will be a specially extended edition of tonight’s RTÉ Six One News dedicated to John Hume. Taking a look back at his life and achievements, it will feature snippets from some of those who knew him best – including David Trimble, with whom he was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 1998.
Tonight, a specially extended #SixOne @rtenews will look back at the life of #JohnHume – and hear from some of those who knew him best, including David Trimble, with whom he was awarded the 1998 Nobel Peace Prize. 6pm @RTEOne. pic.twitter.com/UPnKdoBMec
— Jon Williams (@WilliamsJon) August 3, 2020
RTÉ will also carry live coverage of John Hume’s funeral. Taking place at the Cathedral of Saint Eugen in Derry on Wednesday morning with coverage from 11:30am. According to John’s family, the funeral will be arranged in accordance with current government guidelines with strict limitations on numbers:
“We realise this will mean that many will be unable to join us and we will arrange a memorial service and a celebration of his life in due course.”
Thanking him for being a “light if hope in the most difficult of times”, President Michael D Higgins is amongst those celebrating Hume’s legacy – along with Derry Girls creator Lisa McGee who Tweeted to say:
“I have no words that could possibly do this Man’s life and legacy justice.”
Header image via Twitter/Jon Williams
