31 August 2000 Edition
Hume to resign Assembly seat
SDLP leader John Hume announced on Wednesday, 30 August, that he is to resign his seat in the Six-County Assembly. Hume, who suffered a serious illness last year, cited ill health as the reason for his decision. The 63-year-old intends staying on as SDLP leader, Foyle MP and Six-County MEP.
Sinn Féin's Mitchel McLaughlin said Hume's decision ``is a reflection of the tremendous workload which the SDLP leader has borne down through the years. Mr Hume has made a notable contribution to the development of the peace process and I am sure that he will look forward to a welcome reduction of his political commitments.''
Hume's Assembly seat is to be filled by party colleague Annie Courtney.
Sinn Féin's Mitchel McLaughlin said Hume's decision ``is a reflection of the tremendous workload which the SDLP leader has borne down through the years. Mr Hume has made a notable contribution to the development of the peace process and I am sure that he will look forward to a welcome reduction of his political commitments.''
Hume's Assembly seat is to be filled by party colleague Annie Courtney.