Simon Harris, the present taoiseach, today, turned a new page in the shameful four-decade long saga of the 1981 Stardust tragedy. He expressed a profound apology to all those affected, following in the steps of prior taoiseachs Enda Kenny in 2013 and Micheál Martin in 2021, who apologised to those affected by the Magdalene women matter and those who had spent time in mother and baby homes respectively. Albeit devoid of uncertainty about their sincerity, their words call attention to the cyclic contemptuous behaviour displayed by Ireland’s topmost institutions towards the powerless. It invites one to contemplate about the adequacy of the measures taken to prevent such heinous abuses from recurring.
Nonetheless, the day was dedicated to the memories of the 48 victims and their families who have fought relentlessly for 43 years to ensure full recognition of the injustices meted out to them.
Harris received praise for taking quick action post-last Thursday’s inquest verdict that ruled the deaths as unlawful. He promptly met with the families over the weekend, signalling an impending formal apology. He also paid a visit to the fire’s memorial site in Artane last Monday.
Whilst addressing the families in the Visitors’ Gallery, Harris apologised fervently for the continuous humiliations and dismissals they were subjected to. The touching descriptions painted with words about the young victims during the inquest by their families and dear ones, was poignant enough to stir many. This inspired the Taoiseach’s tribute, in which he remembered each deceased individually.
In Harris’ words, it was a constant and unending source of regret that the families had to endure incessant denials of their truth, injustice, and cold treatment. He remembered the Stardust mothers’ protest in which they took over a frigid Leinster House’s entrance security hut. The apology, he suggested, symbolised the conclusion of their enduring struggle for justice.
The speech, seen as the most significant of Harris’ brief time as Taoiseach, showcased his well-known strengths as an influential and emotionally perceptive communicator.
There persist significant problems that need addressing. Upon acknowledging the inquest’s verdict and suggestions, the Government has hinted at reevaluating the issue of monetary compensation. Because of some paltry final settlements agreed upon in the 1980s, the families of the victims have had no lawful recourse for financial remuneration. Justice Minister Helen McEntee, along with her pertinent associates, will provide updates on the execution of other suggestions made by the inquest. The legal consequences, or lack thereof, that arise from the unlawful killing’s verdict continue to be indeterminate. The Government expressed its dedication to collaborate with the families in determining an apt commemorative strategy for the state to honour the victims. It is the least the victims deserve.