|
David was an honourable man, an impressive
politician and a charismatic leader, who dedicated all his time
and effort in pursuit of a better society and a peaceful future
for Northern Ireland and all it’s citizens. His true commitment
to the Peace Process will never be known but is recognised and
respected by all concerned not only here but in other conflict
zones around the world. His inspirational qualities, generosity
and compassion ensured that other fledgling peace processes
including Sri Lanka, Kashmir and Columbia to name but a few have
benefited from his knowledge and analysis.
David’s sense of social justice drove him to pursue a better
quality of life for the most disadvantaged, deprived and
vulnerable in our community. He turned no one away and worked
tirelessly to achieve his best.
Loyalism has lost its most articulate spokesperson. Unionism has
lost the most Progressive voice of this generation. Politics has
lost a Statesman. Our Peace Process has lost its most optimistic
advocate. And Ulster has lost a devoted son.
David Ervine was born on 21st July 1953, the son of a naval
officer, he lived in East Belfast throughout his life.
Acutely aware of the gross mis-representation and
under-representation of the Loyalist Working Class. A dedicated
and hardworking member of the Party, he was instrumental in
securing the Loyalist cease-fire of 13th October 1994 and
passionately supported the virtues of peace and reconciliation
for Northern Ireland.
David was elected as a Talks Delegate at the Forum Elections in
May 1996 and in the subsequent Multi party talks leading to the
Good Friday Agreement, David and the PUP team played a vital
role.
David was elected as a local councillor for the Pottinger Ward
of East Belfast in May 1997. He was also a member of the
Northern Ireland Assembly from its beginnings in 1998 to his
death in January 2007.
As a proponent of conflict transformation, David is widely
recognised as a positive and valuable influence within the
community. David is also held in high regard by conflict
transformationists the world over: from Bosnia, Kashmir, Israel,
Palestine, Sri Lanka to the Aboriginal Leaders of Australia all
recognise the truly gifted and progressive work and legacy of
David Ervine.
Senator George Mitchell said of David “There is not a more
impressive politician in Northern Ireland”.
But David is best seen through his own words…
“Our divided society can be a better place to live. No one said
it would be easy to make the necessary changes, and few thought
it would take so long. I am a stayer and will not be deflected
from offering the opportunity for new generations to live
differently in the future. There are great opportunities for
Northern Ireland, we just have to grasp them” – David Ervine
Taken from the
PUP website |
