SDLP Stalwart Seamus Mallon Laid To Rest

Politicians past and present gathered in Co Armagh today as former deputy first minister Seamus Mallon was laid to rest.

A key architect of the Northern Ireland peace process, Mr Mallon died on Friday, aged 83.

SDLP Leader Colum Eastwood was today among those who carried the coffin into St James' Church in Mullaghbrack where the former party stalwart's funeral took place.

Secretary of State Julian Smith, Taoiseach Leo Varadkar and Fianna Fail leader Michael Martin attended the packed church service along with a host of other politicians.

SDLP deputy leader Nichola Mallon was among those who delivered a reading, while current first and deputy first ministers Arlene Foster and Michelle O'Neill also joined the mourners.

Mr Mallon, a former teacher from Markethill, was deputy leader of the SDLP from 1979 to 2001. He played a vital role in negotiating the 1998 Good Friday Agreement.

His former partner in government Ulster Unionist Lord Trimble also attended the funeral.

Books of condolence are open at Belfast City Hall and the Guildhall in L'Derry following the popular figure's death.

Hollywood star Sharon Stone is among those who have signed the Belfast City Hall book.



(JG/CM)