Ian Paisley's farewell speech to the House of Commons

DUP MP for North Antrim and former Party Leader Dr Ian Paisley making his farewell speech to the House of Commons. He was speaking on Monday 22nd March 2010 as the House debated the transfer of Policing and Justice powers to Northern Ireland.

[@TheAvarusAnimus]

I am a citizen of the Republic and I must admit I despised this man for many years.I felt he was the poker that stoked the fire of bigotry.But in the last few years I have realised he has somewhat redeemed himself.Every man, whether he's a politician or a quiet man working & raising his family, wants to leave a legacy.I truly believe Ian Paisley,realising his mortality more so as he aged, felt he had to act before he died.His legacy will benefit the unborn of tomorrow.I commend him for this!

[@mammypuss]

...Sad that there were so few 'In House' to hear these wonderfully, wise words spoken...A shameful lack of respect for this stalwart of UK Politics...

[@Lyons010101]

Rev Ian Paisley was/is an important figure in the history of Northern Ireland so why was there not more in attendence in the House of Commons ?

[@jaikba]

Ian Paisley was the voice of loyalism for so many years when a United Ireland was looking like the inevitable outcome. He will forever be remembered as possibly the best speaker NI ever produced and I salute him and wish him good health in his twilight years.

[@SAGETHEOWL76]

A very fine and moving speech from a giant of a man, even though I have always been opposed to his ideology, as @TheAvarusAnimus says he will be remembered in the future as a major contributor to lasting peace in Northern Ireland.

[@SERC03]

a lot of true and wise words spoken by ian.lets hope that this country can become somewhat different.that we can all get along and put the past behind us

[@donotserorator]

I am an English Methodist ,but I have got your back.
Sincere Thanks
Chris East Sussex UK

[@MrSprocket2010]

Four words: For God and Ulster

[@BIGINSF]

He's much more of a peaceful person than Gerry or Martin, since we all know they were senior members of the IRA.

[@BFD1989]

Thank God for Dr Ian Paisley, and Thank God For the Democratic Unionist Party.

[@BenAliGtor]

Just an honest question: what earned academic doctorate from an accredited university does he possess that entitles him to be addressed as "Dr. Paisley"?

[@TheBlackcat239]

@xxksaoXX Peacemaker and Ian Paisley just doesnt go together. At every turn in his life he seeked controversy, heckling thatcher, the pope, organising numerous marches which turned violent... Do that sound to you the work of a peacemaker?

[@FreckletonBoy]

@davepaisley You consider this man a peacemaker? Explain how.

[@robsargent4]

@TheAvarusAnimus I feel much the same as yourself.

[@JOHANSWAN]

Weneed more Ian Paisleys

[@ZemplinTemplar]

Your second sentence couldn't be more accurate (and poetic).

[@odalyindahouse]

@davepaisley u mean are country !!!