Northern Slants in 2017: Remembering those we lost
As with the turning of every year, we look back and reflect on those we’ve mourned over the past twelve months. For Northern Ireland, several notable individuals — and their considerable contributions to the province — were lost. Here, in alphabetical order, are a few of those significant lives.
Glenn Barr (1942–2017)
The former UDA chief and leader of the 1974 Ulster Workers’ Council strike which brought down the first power-sharing executive moved in later life to become an effective community leader, working for peace and reconciliation in his native Londonderry.
Brendan Duddy (1936–2017)
Another proud product of the Second City, Duddy was known as a “quiet peacemaker” and “unsung hero” for his efforts at reconciliation behind the scenes; most notably for his role as a link between the IRA and the Thatcher administration during the 1981 hunger strikes.
Tributes — BBC Northern Ireland
Sir William Hastings (1928–2017)
One of Ireland’s leading hoteliers and among the province’s most influential business figures, he is widely credited with reviving the hospitality industry during and after the troubles, a measure of his confidence in Northern Ireland’s resilience.
Maurice Hayes (1927–2017)
A native of Co Down, Hayes was an independent member of the Irish Seanad and served as Northern Ireland Ombudsman and Boundary Commissioner, and worked on issues of conflict resolution. He will also be remembered for his contribution to the fortunes of Down GAA.
Appreciation by Malachi O’Doherty — Belfast Telegraph
Professor Patrick Johnston (1958–2017)
The noted physician and Queen’s University Vice Chancellor helped establish the world-renowned Centre for Cancer Research and Cell Biology. His work was described as “putting Belfast on the global research map.”
Seamus Kelters (1963–2017)
The widely-respected journalist who began his career at the Irish News and ended it at the BBC was one of the authors of the ‘Lost Lives’ book, which chronicles the very human stories of everyone who was killed during the troubles.
Tributes — BBC Northern Ireland
Ryan McBride (1989–2017)
The sudden and untimely death of the Derry City captain stunned the sporting world. His passion for his hometown club was clear for all to see and he was frequently praised for his commitment on the field as well as his loyalty, leadership and inspiration.
Appreciation by Simon Collins — Derry Journal
Finally… Martin McGuinness (1950–2017)
The former Deputy First Minister was undoubtedly a polarizing figure, beloved by his supporters, but one that has been widely-acknowledged as being crucial to the peace process and in setting a fresh course for the province that has led us to where we are today.
Originally published at Northern Slant.
