by Gareth Cross
A film documenting the work of John Hume in America received a standing ovation at Derry's Guildhall this weekend.
'In The Name of Peace: John Hume in America" was shown as part of the Foyle Film Festival.
The showing had a special introduction from Director Maurice Fitzpatrick and was followed by a panel discussion chaired by Derry born journalist Susan McKay.
The panel included Mr Fitzpatrick, Póilín Ní Chiaráin, former SDLP Foyle MP Mark Durkan and Dr Peter McLoughlin.
The film is narrated by Ballymena actor Liam Neeson and looks at the work of Mr Hume in trying to find a solution to the political violence in Northern Ireland.
He visited America often during 'The Troubles' to garner American support and assistance in trying to establish peace.
Among the contributors to the documentary are former American Presidents Bill Clinton and Jimmy Carter.
Other contributors include, former Prime Ministers Tony Blair and John Major, former SDLP deputy leader Seamus Mallon, Gerry Adams and U2's Bono.
Mr Hume's close relationship with President Clinton saw him visit Derry on numerous occasions.
The showing was sold out with 300 people in attendance including many SDLP representatives and members of the Hume family.
Mr Hume was unable to attend due to ill health.
Speaking before the showing SDLP leader Colum Eastwood said that the documentary would show the real history of the peace process.
"It's very important that we hear the story of what happened from the people who were involved," he said.
"John's story and past work in the US needs to be heard as it had a huge impact on the peace process.
"We have heard other accounts of history from people's imaginations and this will show once and for all what happened."
Former Foyle MP Mark Durkan worked closely with Mr Hume for many years and said that Mr Hume knew the importance of American connections.
"You can absolutely see the impact and effect of John's work in America," he said.
"He knew the importance of it, he sent me to Senator Ted Kennedy's office in 1985 in the run up to the Anglo-Irish Agreement.
"John was held in high standing across the Senate and Congress and had a close relationship with speaker Tip O'Neill.
"He went to America with a very persuasive message and put in a lot of hard work and effort to help establish change."
Mr Hume's wife Pat attended the Dublin premiere of the film and said she was 'absolutely delighted' with the end result.
"Maurice Fitzpatrick's shows the work John did in the USA which was so important at the time," she said.
"He got support in trying to find a political solution for Northern Ireland."
Mrs Hume said that John's links with America helped to attract investment to Northern Ireland.
"After the Anglo-Irish agreement Tip O'Neill helped with the creation of the International Fund for Ireland which has gone on to help create over 70,000 jobs.
"It was so important to attract investment, John also took part on trade missions to Boston in the 1980's which was also very successful.
"I fully support the film and would encourage anyone interested to come and see it. It's a story that has to be told."
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