SENIOR SDLP figures have paid tribute to their party colleague and long-serving Down councillor Peter Craig who passed away in the early hours of New Year’s Day.
Party leader Dr Alasdair McDonnell said Mr Craig “epitomised everything that represented the SDLP success story in south Down”.
“I am deeply saddened at the death of Peter Craig,” he said.
“Peter is one of the party’s longest-serving members and he was at the centre of everything that the party did in south Down.
“He was an excellent councillor and colleague who always worked hard for his community.
“Peter worked for many years in building the SDLP in south Down and the party owes many of our electoral successes to his efforts and determination over the years. My prayers and thoughts are with Angela and his family at this sad time.”
Margaret Ritchie MP also expressed her sympathy to the Craig family and said the SDLP and the people of Down district had lost “a great man who worked tirelessly for the people he represented”.
She said: “I have many fond memories of Peter. He was at Eddie McGrady’s side when he first took south Down in 1987 and he was with me when I held the seat. He was always at our side. I also remember that when he was ill in 2007 and was getting out of hospital he insisted on Eddie taking him to the assembly election count, such was his dedication to the party cause.
“Peter represented what the SDLP was all about. His desire for social justice and equality and his determination to deliver for people, as well as his commitment to the Good Friday Agreement and reconciliation on this island. He was a very good person and will be sorely missed.”
Former south Down MP Eddie McGrady said Mr Craig had been “like a brother” to him.
He said: “We have been friends and colleagues for many years and he has been with me through many electoral challenges. Peter’s contribution to the party and the community was immense.
“His wise counsel and advice have been invaluable to me over the years.
“The major loss in his passing is in his service to the community, not just as a public representative but also as an active member and chair of Saul GAC where he helped and advised many young people.
“Peter also gave private advice and guidance to many individuals in the community and helped many people with their problems in a very private way.
“He was a great person who I, his family and the whole community will sorely miss. My deepest sympathies go to Angela and the family.”
