'His commitment to Ireland was strong and positive.. ' Edward Kennedy 1932-2009 Behind the peace process.

Byline: COLM DONNELLY

POLITICIANS from across Northern Ireland yesterday paid tribute to Ted Kennedy's work in the peace process.

But he was a man whom unionists only warmed to in the mid-1990s when he urged Sinn Fein to follow the path of peace and sign the Good Friday Agreement in 1998.

He was nominated for a honorary knighthood for his work in establishing and supporting peace.

Despite his strong interest in Northern Ireland affairs it was not until 1998 he first visited.

In a speech at Derry's Guildhall he told Protestants in the audience they were "part of our heritage and history".

He said: "The vast, vast majority of Irish Catholics in America bear you no ill will. We are brothers and sisters, not enemies."

He was full of praise for local politicians when power-sharing returned in 2007, saying "a brighter day has dawned for the people".

Senator Kennedy said: "It would not have been possible without the commitment and determination by all of Northern Ireland's political leaders to find a new way forward.

"Each of them is a profile in courage for our time and all time."

Former SDLP leader John Hume, who had a long political and personal relationship with him, said: "Senator Kennedy was an outstanding supporter of the peace process.

"His commitment to Ireland was strong and positive while peace and justice was always at the top of his agenda."

Current SDLP leader Mark Durkan, who worked as an intern in Kennedy's office in 1985, added: "He was never afraid to take stands and stances that challenged the actions of the British Government.

"Furthermore, he was prepared to challenge the convictions of misguided elements of the Irish-American constituency. He stood up for what was right and stood against what was wrong."

Secretary of State Sean Woodward said: "Ted Kennedy was a true and constant friend of the peace process in Northern Ireland whose huge influence in engaging the US in that He came process cannot be overestimated.

"He was an immense figure whose part in transforming Northern Ireland will be a lasting memorial." Sinn Fein's Gerry Adams said: "His service to Ireland through his role in the peace process was exceptional and contributed significantly to its progress.

"My sincere condolences to his wife Vicky and family, to his sister Jean Kennedy Smith, who as Ambassador to Ireland also played a crucial role in the peace process, and to his wide family circle.

"My condolences also to his colleagues in the Senate and Congress and to the American people who have lost a champion."

DUP MLA Peter Weir said: "He came to recognise the validity of the unionist argument and the reality of the position."

UUP deputy leader Danny Kennedy said: "For many years Senator Kennedy would not have been recognised as a friend of unionism, or of Northern Ireland.

"But since the mid-1990s it became clear he had embarked upon a new journey, which eventually led him to an acceptance of unionist opinions, rights and constitutional status."

CAPTION(S):

FORWARD THINKER Ted Kennedy with John Hume in Derry in 1998