Mayor Brian Tierney opens book of condolence to John Hume who he described as a “true hero”
Cllr Tierney said the best way for everyone to show support for the Hume family is to watch the event as it is broadcast live, rather than turning out to pay their respects.
Arrangements have been put in place to broadcast the funeral service on TV, Radio and by live stream on a range of digital platforms to ensure the public can be part of the event, which takes place at St Eugene’s Cathedral at 11.30 am this morning.
The grounds to the Cathedral will be closed today and strict social distancing guidelines will be in place for the limited number of family and friends attending.
The Mayor met with the Hume family to sign the Book of Condolence in the Guildhall on Tuesday before John Hume made his final journey from Moville in Co. Donegal to Derry last night.
Speaking ahead of today’s service Cllr Tierney said: “John Hume was this city’s greatest champion and I know people will want to show their appreciation and regard for him and express their solidarity with his wife Pat and his family.
“These are very unique and challenging times, and the family, while very much aware of the huge support for John, have asked for the public to respect their wishes by following the social distancing guidance and remaining at home.
“The service will be available to view on a range of platforms, and I would really encourage everyone to join with us in remembering John and participating in the service virtually as requested.
“In the coming months we will find another way to mark his incredible and selfless work in bringing peace to this island.
“When the time is right we will have the opportunity to celebrate his life and show the world how we will remember and treasure John and his legacy.”
The grounds of St Eugene’s Cathedral will remain closed to the public today before and during the funeral service.
Parking and some traffic restrictions will be in place in the streets surrounding the Cathedral.
The City Cemetery will remain closed throughout the morning in keeping with the current opening arrangements and social distancing guidelines.
The BBC will live stream the funeral mass from inside the Cathedral from 11.15 am and RTÉ will also broadcast the Funeral Mass on RTÉ One, RTÉ News Now, and on its online and digital platforms.
The service will also be live streamed on https://www.churchservices.tv/derrysteugenes https://churchmedia.tv/…/59673c18116cfb12b2c81012eeb6a8e9bb…
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