Bit of a shock this morning, hadn't been following the story lately but didn't think he was terminally ill or that it would be this quick. I started by reading the victims & families reaction, understandably many want to point out some grim realities, and there's no arguing with that.
One point that comes through in many articles, and which I'd agree with, is that in fairness to him when he did turn the corner he did seem to give it his all in the pursuit of peace and, current Stormont wrangles notwithstanding, that has been a remarkable success. Also probably fair to say that his militarist background (as opposed to Gerry who only did cake sales, that sort of thing...) was significant in minimising the split when SF/IRA went on the path to peace.
Many saying the truth has died with him - not sure how much of that is really the case - was there that much he alone knew? There's also the possibility that he has given info to a family member or whoever to contribute to a possible future truth & reconciliation process. But I guess if there's ever to be such a process they'd want to get cracking in the next 5-10 years or a lot of the 'actors' will have departed.
A really bad week for Derry it has to be said, condolences to both families (& all victims families too).
One point that comes through in many articles, and which I'd agree with, is that in fairness to him when he did turn the corner he did seem to give it his all in the pursuit of peace and, current Stormont wrangles notwithstanding, that has been a remarkable success. Also probably fair to say that his militarist background (as opposed to Gerry who only did cake sales, that sort of thing...) was significant in minimising the split when SF/IRA went on the path to peace.
Many saying the truth has died with him - not sure how much of that is really the case - was there that much he alone knew? There's also the possibility that he has given info to a family member or whoever to contribute to a possible future truth & reconciliation process. But I guess if there's ever to be such a process they'd want to get cracking in the next 5-10 years or a lot of the 'actors' will have departed.
A really bad week for Derry it has to be said, condolences to both families (& all victims families too).