Brendan Hughes was a man of principle, an idealist who devoted his life to
the cause of removing all vestiges of the British presence in Ireland.
Those who would term Brendan a "No-Hoper" are wrong. Brendan was, as we are,
full of hope that will will find and realise our hopes for a free and
unfettered Ireland.
Those who lost hope have embraced Britishness with open arms and open hands.
Brendan could not be bought. He lived humbly in his last years; let those
who have prospered from this war hang their heads in shame as they cruise
between their various properties in their four wheelers.
Brendan was aware very early on that the "buy out" known as the "Peace
Process" was directed at those who craved power and money. Now they run the
British Administration in the six northern counties for the enemy. Treachery
beyond all anticipation.
Brendan Hughes sought no personal gain. He was a giant of a man, a
Republican leader who led from the front. He asked no volunteer to do what
he would not do himself; he fought side by side with his volunteers.
If, as Martin McGuinness has described those of us opposed to the agreement
with Britain, if Brendan was a "no hoper," then he stands amongst a brave
and valiant crew. Cathal Brugha, Harry Boland, Maud Gonne, Mary MacSwiney,
all, and many more, castigated because they were uncompromising Republicans.
Those who once professed to be Republicans and now act as British
Administrators in the six counties, let them hang their heads in shame at
the way in which they treated Brendan in his last years. Let them look into
their souls and ask, "Could I have been that brave?"
They rose to prosper on the back and bravery of Brendan; he had no time for
personal gain or power. He served that old lady, "Republicanism" and served
her well. Today we lost that great Republican.
I am proud to call him comrade and friend.
