Campaign grows to name new Derry bridge after John Hume

A campaign is growing in Derry to have the new bridge linking Ebrington and the Cityside named after John Hume.
Assembley work on what has become known as the “Peace Bridge” has been underway for over a week, with local SDLP politicians saying the awarding of the title “Ireland’s Greatest” to their former party leader strengthens the campaign to have the new structure named the John Hume Peace Bridge.
In a statement this morning, the SDLP Leader Margaret Richie lent her voice to thje debate, saying the new bridge should be named after the one man who has done the most for his city and country, as voted by the people of Ireland.
She says she first made that call on the day she launched the plans for the bridge as Social Development MInister, and she reiterates that call once again.
Ms Richie says John Hume went about his way with a determination and dignity, serving the people. He was humbled by his recognition on Friday and would be humbled by the naming of the peace bridge after him.
She says that knowing John Hume as she does, he is probably a little embarrassed by it all, but that is no reason not to do it.
In copnclusion, Ms Richie asks what better metaphor than a bridge would encapsulate the message of hope and reconciliation espoused in John Hume’s work?