Families of the victims from the tragic Creeslough explosion have called on the Irish Government to initiate a public inquiry into the disaster, which claimed ten lives in October 2022. A lawyer representing the next of kin for seven of the victims has formally written to Minister for Justice Helen McEntee, requesting an independent investigation into the circumstances surrounding the explosion.
The devastating blast occurred on October 7, 2022, at a service station in the village of Creeslough, County Donegal, resulting in the deaths of four men, three women, and three children, aged between five and 59. While the exact cause of the explosion has yet to be officially confirmed, preliminary inquiries suggest that a gas leak is a significant line of investigation.
Phoenix Law, representing the majority of the families, emphasized in their letter to Minister McEntee that the lack of an independent, human-rights-compliant investigation has compounded the families’ suffering. Darragh Mackin, the solicitor for the families, stated that they are also seeking a meeting with the minister to discuss their request further.
“The tragedy of Creeslough has inflicted unimaginable pain on the families,” Mackin wrote. “They cannot fully grieve their losses until the truth of what happened is established and acknowledged, and lessons learned to prevent a similar tragedy in the future.”
Currently, the only ongoing investigation is being conducted by An Garda Síochána, which focuses on potential criminality. However, Mackin pointed out that this investigation cannot produce a public report or make recommendations to ensure such an incident does not recur. He stated that the gardaí’s role is limited to criminal investigations, and he underscored the need for a comprehensive inquiry that examines broader issues related to the explosion.
Mackin further noted that an inquest would likely be “insufficient and ineffective,” as such proceedings could take years to conclude. He argued that complex incidents, like the Creeslough explosion, require simultaneous investigations to provide the affected families with clarity and closure. The inquiry into the Grenfell Tower fire in London was cited as a relevant example of a parallel investigation providing critical answers while a criminal inquiry was ongoing.
In conclusion, Mackin urged Minister McEntee to consider establishing a public inquiry or commission of investigation promptly. “As we approach the second anniversary of the tragedy, it is crucial that these families are given a forum to access relevant documentation and seek answers,” he stated.
A spokesperson for the Minister’s department confirmed receipt of the families’ letter and stated that its contents are under consideration. Meanwhile, An Garda Síochána reiterated that their investigation is ongoing and will submit a file to the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions in due course.
As the families await a response, Mackin emphasized the importance of transparency and accountability in understanding the circumstances surrounding the explosion. “These families deserve to know the truth and to ensure that such a tragedy does not happen again,” he concluded.
