Eddie McGrady Funeral Takes Place

A funeral has been held for one of the SDLP's founding members, Eddie McGrady, in Downpatrick this morning.

Former SDLP leader John Hume, Martin McGuinness and Secretary of State Theresa Villiers, are among those in attendance.

Hundreds of people are reported to be paying their respects at St Patrick's Church in the town.

Eddie McGrady died on Monday after a long illness, aged 78.

He will be buried at St Patrick's Cemetery in Saul.

A founding member of the SDLP, he was South Down MP from 1987 until his retirement three years ago.

One of his major political achievements was in 1987, when he defeated Enoch Powell, who had been Ulster Unionist MP for South Down since 1974.

Mr McGrady's wife of more than 20 years, Patricia, passed away in 2003. They are survived by their three children - Paula, Jerry and Conaill.

SDLP West Tyrone MLA Joe Byrne called him "a man of the people".

"He was a man of principle, strong faith and dedication to serving the public," he said.

"He put people first and this won him great support from the electorate. He was a gentleman at all times.

"I have known Eddie for many years and was privileged to work alongside him and serve on the first Policing Board with him. Eddie was SDLP through and through. He was very forward thinking and always put others before his own gain.

"Eddie qualified as a chartered accountant in 1956 with the highest marks of his year in these islands. He was a true professional in anything that he did as an accountant or a politician."

SDLP Deputy Leader Dolores Kelly said: "I first met Eddie in 1993 as a novice, young councillor, bewildered at meeting some of these household names, and I have a lasting memory of Eddie McGrady making a point of speaking to me, encouraging me, and remembering my name. He always struck me as a gentleman through and through. It would be fair comment to say that the tributes across the political spectrum summed up the man."

(IT/MH)