Paddy Leonard meets former US President Bill Clinton.
SDLP Sperrin local election candidate for Strabane Patrick Leonard has described meeting former US President Bill Clinton in Derry last week as a “fantastic experience.”
Mr Leonard said it was a great honour to meet and shake hands with the 42nd President of the United States describing Mr Clinton as an “inspirational world leader.”
Mr Leonard said: “Mr Clinton helped so much to keep the peace process on track during his time in office and has always had great links with the SDLP and its former leader, John Hume. Both these men have been inspirational leaders.
“It was great to see him pay tribute to John Hume for his contribution to the peace process, as he doesn’t get the recognition he deserves as he sacrificed everything to put the troubles behind us.
“Having been present in the Guildhall Square back in 1995 during his previous visit, I felt I had to make that journey again. I couldn’t believe it last week as he left the stage and took time out to stop for photographs and handshakes.
“His message was clear in looking for a better future for our youth when he said ‘For the sake of the young people and for all those who done so much for so long, like John, finish the job.’
“This was the same message Eddie McGrady passed on to party conference in November just before his death.
“It is within everyone’s interest, for the future of our children and our grandchildren, to continue the legacy set by these great people and it is time to succeed with their vision and that of the SDLP…. ‘a vision of ambition and hope for a stronger future’.”
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