Sign in. It’s quick, free and it’s up to you.
An account is an optional way to support the work we do. Find out more.
RETIRED JUDGE PAT McCarten has three months to examine the new evidence Stardust victims’ families say has recently been discovered into the tragedy.
A total of 48 people died and 214 were injured in the fire that engulfed the Stardust nightclub in Artane, north Dublin, in the early hours of Valentine’s Day, 14 February 1981.
After 36 years, the campaigners are now one step closer to having another investigation held into the tragedy if judge McCartan deems it necessary.
There was deadlock in January between Independent Alliance junior minister Finian McGrath and his Fine Gael Cabinet colleagues over a motion put forward calling for an independent inquiry into the 1981 nightclub fire.
McGrath, who has long campaigned for the families, asked his Cabinet colleagues to support the motion, but they would not agree.
However, the proposal for an independent expert to review the new evidence, with a view to establishing a commission of investigation, was accepted by government.
Antoinette Keegan, a survivor of the Stardust who lost her sisters Mary and Martina in the fire, said the new evidence cannot be ignored.
It’s understood the new evidence pertains to the thousands of transcripts of the original Keane tribunal investigation, which researcher Geraldine Foy reviewed.
The families believe she has discovered new evidence which disputes the original findings that the fire began in a seat.
Keegan is adamant the fire started in the roof-space, and not the seat.
“The Keane report does not match up to what me and the other 100 people experienced that night when the fire was coming down on top of us,” she said.
To embed this post, copy the code below on your site
5 days after th fire at the Stardust we finally got confirmation that our dear sister Thelma’s remains had been positively identified. My late Dad spent two days going around all the Dublin hospitals in the hope that she still maybe alive, or that she may be wondering around in shock. Even after those two days he refused to give up hope. On the 19th. Feb when, my dad uncle and two brothers and I arrived at the Dublin City’s Coroners Court. The first thing to hit me was the smell of cigarette smoke mixed with the smell of burning. People were huddled together in small groups, the grief was palpable, it was so quiet, people were talking in whispers; occasionally you would hear cries and screams, from grief stricken family members. Then a Garda Sargent called us over to his table, and sat us down. Only then did my Dad finally lose all hope. I can’t imagine the emotion’s he was going through, as the Garda sergeant handed us a brown evidence envelope containing her melted earrings and charred digital watch, necklace and wrist chain. I was shock and said, NO it’s not hers, only for my dad to put his arm around my shoulder and give me a hug. I know now that I was in denial, My Dad then asked could he have them, only for the Garda snap back at us NO THIS IS EVIDENCE! I could see this day was taking its toll on the Garda, as he shook our hands as he offered his sympathies. As we left the court, Dublin taxi drivers queued outside the court to give up their fares for the day, to take grieving families home, such an honourable gesture that will never be lost on me. My dad declined to take a taxi, but to this day I don’t know how we actually got home, such was the grief I felt. I still don’t know how my Mam and Dad survived those dark days. All I know is that it did eventually take its toll on them seven years later. At the age of 56 and within couple years of each other, they passed away. This is one of the reasons I will never give up the fight for justice and truth, for my sister Thelma and my parents and the 47 other lost souls.
Solidarity with you Maurice and all of the victims, living and passed, of this awful, awful tragedy.
I was born on valentines day & my birthday always has an air of sadness when i think of what these poor victims went through.. its an outrage to this day that these people are still fighting for justice.. keep the faith people behind you all the way
I don’t think any of these families have ever had the chance to grieve properly . They lost a loved one and on top of that have spent 36 years fighting for the truth . . None of them will be able to rest until it all comes to head . Shame on everyone involved for prolonging this for 36 years .
I was just five years old when my sister Thelma died in the stardust! That night was devastating for my family, as it was for all those who lost and suffered!
I have no lasting memories of my older sister and as a now grown man – I feel like I never got to say hello let alone goodbye to my sis! I grew up in a happy household, with my other siblings constantly talking about how lovely she was, and reminiscing on happy times!! Times I never got to know!
Thelma wherever you are – I would love to share my love with you, and introduce to my son who is just the age I was when you died!
I have very little faith in our government but I believe in time the truth will out, but alas time is running out!
All we want is the truth to be acknowledged!! I’d personally like someone to be held responsible- but I feel that many carpets have been lifted to sweep this scandal under!!
Love you Thelma
Eric
Eric your sister would be so proud of you, that was a very moving piece you wrote
What a moving tribute to your sister Eric.. she would be proud of you. Keep fighting.. #justicefor48
The same Pat McCartan that was appointed as a circuit court judge by FG and Labour. The money trough never runs dry. Does it?
How independent can a retired judge be? My guess is not at all.
Judge McCartan is the best chance for the victims, survivors & their families to get justice. I’m actually surprised he got this job as he was a TD for Darndale & surrounding areas in the early 80s & often spoke about the stardust & lack of justice. He’s exactly the Judge I thought would not be let near this case. I hope he still has the Integrity, courage & love of truth & justice he had as a young student & politician.
Title should read.. retired Judge makes a nice few bob for doing f#ck all for the Victims and their Family
@Jonathan Stapleton: are you saying you’re up to the job?
have your say