Madam, - I concur with Gerry Moriarty's description of John Hume as "a truly giant Irish political figure of the 20th Century" (The Irish Times, February 5th).
It is easy to forget, while frustrated by the suspension of the institutions and talks breakdowns, what has been achieved. Ten years ago anyone envisaging an agreement that would bear the signatures of David Trimble, John Hume, Gerry Adams and representatives of loyalism would have been regarded as deluded. The fact that this agreement was created was in large measure due to the courage and steadfastness of John Hume.
Sadly, the "murderous cycle" has not been broken entirely. There is still rising tension in the interface areas of Belfast and other towns and cities and there are sectarian and racist attacks on a regular basis. There are more so-called "peace walls" separating divided communities than there were when the agreement was signed. The agreement has created an opportunity to tackle the root causes of the sectarian hatreds. Governments, NGOs, community leaders and others should work together to create a strategy to do so.
John Hume's political career is a testament that planning, courage and a willingness not to be put off by the inevitable setbacks can achieve what initially appears impossible. This lesson needs to be applied when dealing with the sectarianism at street level as well as political level. - Yours, etc.,
TONY KENNEDY OBE,Chief Executive,Co-operation Ireland,Herbert Place,Dublin 2.
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Madam, - Thanks to John Hume for all his efforts in bringing about peace in Northern Ireland. I hope he enjoys his retirement. - Yours, etc.,
JOE HARVEY,
Glenageary Woods, Glenageary, Co Dublin.