The Rev. Dr. David Clements, Convenor of the Methodist Church in Ireland's Council on Social Responsibility has issued the following statement on the death of Lord Trimble:

"David Trimble, though loyal to his own political philosophy, made a gesture of great bravery and magnanimity in 1998 when he opted to put peace before party and signed up to the Good Friday Agreement, which has undoubtedly led our current generation of young adults being able to grow up in a less turbulent environment than their parents.

His contribution to political life, both locally and internationally, was considerable and his status as a significant political thinker will, I believe be upheld by history.

The Methodist people extend their sympathies to Lady Daphne, Richard, Vicky, Nicholas and Sarah and their wider family and friends."

ENDS

Issued by:
Rev. Roy Cooper (07710945104)

Press Officer