William Craig (MP) 1924-2011

I learned on the news this morning that the former Unionist minister and MP, William (Bill) Craig has died.

I never met him, though I can recount a little anecdote: During the late seventies or early eighties, my father and I were boating on Lough Erne. We were at the Manor House Hotel in Killadeas for a snack.

Bill Craig was seated on his own in a quiet part of the large lounge bar, minding his own business, reading a newspaper and having a drink. He habitually left his boat, which I think may have been called Gaffer Goose or Duck, at the marina. The cruiser appeared to be somewhat neglected, with dirt and weeds growing on parts of the decking.

I believe the Craigs owned a little island, Gaffer Island, not far from the Hotel. I also seem to recall that they flew the Union Jack or Red Ensign from the jetty. They lived in a static caravan near the jetty.

Rumours were circulating at the time that, owing to paramilitary threats, the Craigs hadn't been able to construct a permanent home on the little island. I have no idea as to the validity of that theory.