SDLP leaders asked South Down MP Margaret Ritchie MP to pay a tribute to the late Eddie McGrady, former South Down MP, at the party annual meeting this past weekend.
Addressing the party members and representatives, Ms Ritche said: “Eddie McGrady whi passed away on 11th November 2011 was a founder member of the SDLP and its first Chair in the 70’s. He was a distinguished politician, and a man of immense political ability, whose approach to politics embodied the central principles of integrity, service, and dedication to the task.
“His political and community work was imbued with strong values – social justice, reconciliation and fairness. Values that we strive to follow in our political lives today.
[caption id="attachment_53016" align="alignleft" width="250"]
The late Eddie McGrady.[/caption]
“During his 50 year political career, from when he was first elected Councillor on Downpatrick Urban Council to his years as MP and MLA for South Down, Eddie focused on building up a solid social and economic infrastructure for the people of South Down. Nothing in South Down was ever too parochial and no-one in South Down was ever denied his help.
“His career is jewelled with successes on behalf of the people of South Down.”
“A new Downe hospital – (which incidentally we will fight to protect from the current ludicrous cutbacks), new schools and further education colleges from Downpatrick to Warrenpoint; community regeneration in all the smaller settlements. And real help for tourism, small businesses, farmers and fishermen.
“As a public representative Eddie’s constant achievement was giving individual constituents a voice when dealing with the Government and its various authorities, particularly at a time when government was not as open and accessible as it is now. The people of South Down knew that they could trust his tireless representations on their behalf, a relationship of trust which is still at the heart of being a good Member of Parliament.
“On the bigger political stage, Eddie fought alongside SDLP colleagues for a New Ireland – an agreement based on mutual respect, power-sharing and a recognised Irish dimension within the North. He was proud to serve as a Minister in the historic, albeit shortlived, 1974 power-sharing Executive.
“And after brilliantly unseating Enoch Powell, he was busy at Westminster ensuring the passage of the Fair Employment Bill, which championed the rights of workers, and the Elected Authorities Bill which brought about one person one vote.
“Eddie was also an inspiration to a generation of politicians and community activists. Although a soft-spoken man he was a wonderful campaigner and he gave confidence to many in the campaigns he led over the new hospital or the ending of poisonous discharges from Sellafield.
“Eddie had a deep, abiding, religious faith and a great interest in the early Christian and Patrician heritage of South Down. He brought the St Patrick Centre to Downpatrick town centre and he took great delight in living in Saul within yards of where the Saint established his first church.
‘Eddie may have been spiritual, but alongside that he could be mischievous. He had a unique sense of humour – both quick-witted and dry. He was a polished raconteur and great company to be around.
“I will be eternally grateful to Eddie. He gave me the opportunity to work alongside him and to learn from him about politics. Above all, he taught me the value of politics as a means of bringing about positive social and economic change for local communities. He instilled the belief that it is an honour to serve others. I am privileged that I have been given the opportunity to continue his legacy in South Down as MP working for all of the people.
“Eddie would no doubt be dismayed at the current downward spiral in our politics – but he would see the clear opportunity for the SDLP to find the solutions and to provide the missing leadership. He would insist on a positive strategy.
“Indeed his wise counsel would be particularly valuable at this time.
“We, all of us in the SDLP, salute Eddie’s outstanding achievements and give thanks for his lifetime contribution to our cause. We will draw pleasure in his memory and we will draw inspiration from his tireless example, as we face and overcome the challenges that lie ahead,” added Ms Ritchie.
]]>
