Dear reader,
The recent verdict of the Stardust inquiry has undoubtedly been embraced by the majority, including myself. Prime Minister Simon Harris has rightly issued an apology, but it’s crucial that it isn’t mere lip service. Previous governments, his own included, have largely failed to provide ample assistance for burn injury survivors and those impacted by such traumas.
There’s an urgent need for the Prime Minister to contemplate the practical measures that his administration can and should implement to assist patients, survivors and their families. Those affected by the Stardust calamity’s pain and grief must be recognised, and their anguish is a stark reality that never fades. As individuals involved in burn care, we witness first-hand the inspiring resilience and dignity of burn injury victims. Yet, the inadequacy of available services amplifies their suffering.
Prime Minister Harris and his administration would find it beneficial to consider how insufficiently they have confronted the true requirements of those touched by burn injuries and to provide indispensable services for burn survivors and their families. For his apology to hold worth, the Prime Minister must confront his own healthcare shortcomings.
Yours faithfully,
ODHRAN SHELLEY,
Consulting Plastic Surgeon, Head of the National Burns Unit
St James’s Hospital Dublin,
Surgical Clinical Professor, Trinity College Dublin
Dear reader,
I have been closely following the Stardust investigation since the proceedings commenced on April 25th, 2023. A year onward, we have landed on a verdict of “unlawful killing”. Every Irish person shares genuine sympathy for all those involved.
May I propose the designation of one day each year during Easter week to commemorate all tragic losses our nation has suffered. This day would pay tribute to all family tragedies, including the Stardust fire, suicides, missing persons, cot deaths, and more.
Those left to mourn would take solace in knowing that, at least once annually, their personal tragedies are not forgotten. A variety of commemorations such as church services, candlelight ceremonies, or other forms of homage could be considered.
A commemoration would not only serve as a fitting end to the tragic Stardust chapter but also offer support to other Irish residents. It would honour our history of profound pain in a respectful, permanent manner and celebrate the resilience and hope of surviving family members.
Yours sincerely,
BRENDA MORGAN,
Howth.
Dear Sir, in County Dublin,
It is indeed apt and suitable that the government has expressed remorse for its shortcomings in the management of the Stardust investigations.
However, it’s not challenging for existing politicians to express regret about the deeds of those who came before them.
If their apologies are genuinely heartfelt, they should reflect on their own actions, such as their failing to make provisions for children requiring autism therapy or scoliosis surgery. This reflection is vital to ensure that future political leaders won’t have to offer apologies for these similar shortcomings.
Yours sincerely,
John Humphreys, Monaleen, County Limerick.