Creeslough Families Demand Public Inquiry Into 2022 Explosion, Cite Government Failure

Families of the 10 victims of the Creeslough tragedy are demanding a public inquiry into the events of October 7, 2022, stating the Government has failed them. Donna Harper, whose 14-year-old daughter Leona died in the explosion, was in Dublin to urge government assistance, highlighting the devastating four-year wait for answers.

Ms. Harper asserted that the Government does not need to await the conclusion of a Garda investigation before initiating a public inquiry. Sinn Féin leader Mary Lou McDonald supported this, welcoming the Taoiseach's commitment to meet the families, but stressed the urgency of the meeting and the possibility of an inquiry running concurrently without compromising the Garda investigation.

Taoiseach Micheál Martin acknowledged the tragedy and the need for accountability. However, he believes the criminal justice process, including the Garda investigation and inquest, should conclude first. He stated that if issues persist afterward, the Government would then consider a public inquiry, expressing understanding for the long wait for answers.