New John Hume Fund in Irish Programme of Government welcomed

An annual award which recognises John Hume's 'deep commitment to the European project' has been welcomed.

A draft Programme of Government, which has been agreed by Fianna Fail, Fine Gael and a number of independent TDs, includes the new award.

The former SDLP leader and Foyle MP died in 2020.

John Hume jr, Chair of the John and Pat Hume Foundation said: “Our family and the John and Pat Hume Foundation are deeply appreciative that the Irish Government Draft Programme of Government includes a positive recommendation to recognise John Hume’s deep commitment to the European project through an annual award by the European Parliament to a person or organisation who promotes reconciliation and shared prosperity in Europe.

"As John Hume always said ‘the European Union is the best example of conflict resolution in the history of the world'.

John Hume jr added: “It is also welcome that the Irish Government is committed to increase the Shared Ireland Fund by a further €1 billion up to 2035. 

"The valuable contribution of the Reconciliation Fund over many years and the enormous impact and potential of the Shared Island Fund and initiative cannot be underestimated.

"They serve to build peace and deepen reconciliation on so many levels across the island alongside the continuing work to build the common ground using the institutions of the Good Friday Agreement."