Former SDLP leader and Foyle MP John Hume and wife Pat
Originally it was due to be launched in May, but due to the Coronavirus lockdown that didn’t happen.
This is a model more familiar in the USA where they have former presidents with foundations and libraries but it is less common in Ireland and the UK.
The idea is to protect John Hume’s legacy and to work for reconciliation and those committed to peaceful change within Ireland and also around the world because of his internationalist approach.
The name will be the John and Pat Hume Foundation to symbolise what was a unique personal partnership.
But it will also be a political partnership because anyone who knew them and knew that Pat played a big role in the judgement calls that John made during those difficult years in the peace process.
At his funeral Mass last Wednesday in Derry, priest Fr Paul Farran spoke of the strong relationship between the devoted couple.
Said Fr Farran: “We pray especially for you Pat. There is an old comment that says behind every good man there is a good woman.
“In Pat’s case this is one quarter of the truth.
John Hume’s remains wheeled from the Cathedral to be taken to his final place of rest in the nearby City Cemetery
“She stood beside him to love him and accompany him even in the most difficult times.
“And when his health failed and his mind got weaker she walked in front of him to lead him.
“Pat encircled John with love, compassion and support and it was your presence that made his work possible.
“When the history of Ireland is written if Pat Hume’s name is not beside John’s it will be an incomplete history,” added Fr Farran.
