South Down MLA Seán Rogers (SDLP) has paid tribute to the contribution of Dr. TK Whitaker to civic life across the island and has described him as a ‘key architect of modern Ireland’.
Mr Rogers made his comments during an event organised by the SDLP in Dublin celebrating the work of Dr Whitaker which was attended by over 650 people and was addressed by former Irish President Mary McAleese.
He said: “I am delighted to have the opportunity to pay tribute to a man who made such an indelible impact on the social, economic and political fabric of modern Ireland. The attendance of over 650 people shows that TK Whitaker is held in the highest regard by his peers and all of us who know of his tireless efforts to make this island a better place.
“I was especially pleased to hear fellow north Belfast native and former President of Ireland Mary McAleese speak in such glowing terms about Ken’s life and work. He guided Taoisigh and Ministers through some of the most difficult periods in our recent history and arguably was the father of North/South relations, having arranged the Lemass/O’Neill meetings which marked the first cooperation since partition.
“His diligent, often unsung contribution deserves to be recognised and remembered. As a man committed to peace and who brought much needed investment to the island, it is right that we honoured him and that so many turned out to give their well wishes.”
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