Sir, - As a long-standing member of the SDLP and a person who has worked for many years on community issues in North Belfast, I would like to pay the highest tribute to Mary McAleese.
I first met Mary at the beginning of the Troubles when, as a student, she volunteered to help in our parish advice centre. Since that time I have met her and worked with her on various occasions.
I am absolutely certain that she is totally committed to non-violence and is a person of the highest integrity. Experiences of sectarian murder attempts on her family have not embittered her. On the contrary, these have served to make her more determined to work for peace and reconciliation. It is often those who have suffered who are most ready to forgive and forge healing bonds of friendship.
I was not surprised to read in the "leaks" that Mary was involved with Fr Reid and Mr Fitzpatrick in the Redemptorist peace initiative which was instrumental in bringing about the ceasefire. Mary did not mention her involvement to me or to anyone I know, as she understandably bound by the necessary secrecy of the endeavour.ein to call a ceasefire shows that she really cares about peace and is prepared to work for it.
When John Hume first contacted Gerry Adams with the same aim he too was criticised, but the test of a true peacemaker is whether he or she is prepared to take risks for peace. Mary McAleese, like John Hume, passed that test.
Contrary to what is being said by those who oppose her, she is a warm, down-to-earth person who makes everyone feel important and at ease. She has never forgotten her early years in Ardoyne and is a favourite with her former neighbours. She is remembered for her concern and kindness, especially for that to a young man whom she found badly beaten on the Crumlin Road. Mary got him to hospital and subsequently called regularly to see him and the family, to find out how he was and to see if she could do anything more to help.
We wish her every success in the election. - Yours, etc.,
Lisdarragh Park, Belfast 14.