Derry political figures yesterday paid tribute to legendary Irish musician, the late Ronnie Drew, who died on Saturday.
Deputy First Minister Martin McGuinness led the tributes to the 73-year-old founder of ‘The Dubliners’, stating that his death had left “a massive void in the cultural life of Ireland”.
“Ronnie Drew was a tremendous talent, not only in music but a
lso a champion of the people who was to the fore of the campaign for cheap affordable travel for the people in Dublin which resulted in the DART system.”
SDLP Leader Mark Durkan said Ireland had lost one of its “warmest characters”, who was recognised worldwide.
“Everyone in Ireland felt they knew Ronnie Drew even if they never met him - that was because in his songs and stories he spoke to everyone and often for everyone.”
Nobel Peace Prize Laureate and former SDLP Leader, John Hume, spoke of his sadness at the loss of a friend.
“Ronnie Drew was a friend and I was always greatly appreciative for his support to our approach in the peace process. As well as being a man that told many stories through his songs, he was also a man of deep conviction for Ireland and for peace.
“His death will be felt most by his family and friends but generations across Ireland and indeed across the world will miss his unique voice and his remarkable stories. His legacy will remain forever in our hearts and minds through his music.”
The full article contains 251 words and appears in Journal Tuesday Derry Edit newspaper.
