02/04/2002

Northern Ireland marks Queen Mother’s death

People in Northern Ireland have begun signing books of condolence following the death of the Queen Mother.

A book has been opened at St Columb’s Cathedral in Londonderry, and further books are due to be opened at Belfast City Hall, Craigavon Civic Centre and at Hillsborough Castle on Wednesday.

The Northern Ireland Assembly will be recalled on Thursday morning as a mark of respect to the Queen Mother.

Leaders of the various political parties have been given 10 minutes each to pay tribute to the 101-year-old stalwart of the British monarchy, who died on Saturday March 30, and was remembered at church services across Northern Ireland on Easter Sunday.

The Queen Mother paid 14 visits to Northern Ireland between 1924 and her death.

Her last was on June 29, 1990 where she visited the Black Watch - one of her Army regiments, then stationed at Ballykinlar - before attending a garden party at Hillsborough Castle, County Down.

Northern Ireland Secretary John Reid said the Queen Mother had "touched the hearts of generations of men and women" in the province.

He added: “I know that the Queen Mother had a special fondness for this part of the United Kingdom.

“That was reciprocated by the deep affection of so many in Northern Ireland for her gentleness and warmth.”

(AMcE)

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