Statement by President Higgins on the death of Tom Hyland
Date: Tue 24th Dec, 2024 | 14:24
"May I join with all those, in East Timor, Ireland and beyond, who have expressed their sadness at the death of Tom Hyland.
Tom Hyland was one of those exceptional people who, having familiarized himself with what was happening far away from Ireland, decided to take action on an issue of humanity that could not be ignored.
As the driving force behind the East Timor Ireland Solidarity Campaign (ETISC), Tom Hyland made a deeply significant contribution to the independence struggle and establishment of Timor-Leste.
Having watched Max Stahl's television documentary "Cold Blood: The Massacre of East Timor", Tom immediately began his ceaseless work to bring the matter to the attention of not just the Irish public, but that of the world.
During his bus breaks, he began contacting people who might be of assistance in drawing attention to the struggle of the people of East Timor.
I recall Tom contacting me around the time of his establishment of the East Timor Ireland Solidarity Campaign in order to seek my support and we remained in touch on the issue over the years.
The significant contribution made by the East Timor Ireland Solidarity Campaign was recognised as one of the most effective globally by the Timor-Leste government after independence and Tom was central to this work, including in encouraging the Irish government to play a commendable role in the establishment of democracy. In recognition of the positive impact of the ETISC in supporting the struggle for independence of the Timorese people, ETISC was presented with the ‘Order of Timor-Leste’ Presidential Medal by President Taur Matan Ruak.
Tom was to retain a strong connection with East Timor over the decades, living and working there for significant periods and I know that his work and legacy will remain deeply appreciated there, where he has been given a grave among the ‘heroes of the Revolution’ in Timor.
May I express my deepest condolences to Tom's family, colleagues and many friends across the world."
ENDS