Just as we uploaded tonight’s edition for print, we heard the news of the passing of John Hume, a man whose impact and legacy on the island of Ireland in terms of peace and reconciliation cannot be overestimated.
In 1997, he did an interview with Tom Hanley for the St Patrick’s Athletic programme which detailed his passion for football and Derry City FC.
Given your very heavy commitments in Northern Ireland, Westminster and in Europe, what opportunities do you have to follow the progress of your native Derry City team?
It is almost impossible for me to get a chance to go to a match because of work pressures and other commitments. But I follow progress through the local media. As well as the local papers in the Derry area, Radio Foyle, with its great sports pieces, is great for keeping someone like me in touch with the progress, problems or prospects in local soccer. Some might argue that this is spoiling local fans, who may have got lazy about getting to the Brandywell.
Finally, what are your overall impressions of St Patrick’s Athletic?
I am first of all honoured to be given the opportunity of featuring in your matchday magazine and speaking to the supporters of two such fine clubs. St Pats obviously represent their proud community with the same commitment and style as Derry, my home city. I would like to visit Richmond Park some time soon and I hope tonight’s game is as good as so many previous ones between these two fine clubs.
