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In a poignant appeal, Donna Harper, the mother of 14-year-old Leona Harper, who lost her life in the devastating explosion at a service station in Creeslough, County Donegal, has called on the Irish government to engage in “meaningful talks” regarding a public inquiry into the tragedy. This tragic incident, which occurred on 7 October 2022, claimed the lives of ten people, and Donna Harper believes that a comprehensive inquiry is essential for the families seeking closure and answers.
A Call for Justice
Speaking to BBC Radio Foyle, Harper expressed her profound sorrow and frustration over the lack of official explanation regarding the explosion. “I never imagined I would be standing alongside families of other victims, fighting for justice for my daughter and the others who died,” she reflected. The ongoing criminal investigation, led by the Gardaí in conjunction with various regulatory bodies, has yet to provide clarity on the causes of the blast.
This Saturday, Harper will address an event in Londonderry commemorating the 54th anniversary of Bloody Sunday, a day that saw 13 civil rights demonstrators killed by British soldiers. Harper hopes that sharing her story alongside families affected by other historical tragedies will amplify the call for accountability and truth.
Seeking Answers Together
The explosion at the service station has left a lasting impact on the community, with families still grappling with their loss. Among the deceased were Robert Garwe and his young daughter Shauna, as well as Leona Harper. The families affected are united in their quest for answers, a sentiment echoed by Harper: “Those families understand exactly what we are going through.”
Harper has been informed that an outstanding portion of the investigation file will be submitted to the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) in March. However, she insists that the urgency for a public inquiry cannot wait until the criminal investigation concludes. “We deserve the truth,” she stated emphatically, urging the government to engage with the families directly.
The Road Ahead
In 2024, Donegal County Council passed a motion advocating for a public inquiry, a step Harper believes is vital for transparency. Planning permission for a new development on the blast site was initially granted but overturned following appeals from bereaved families. “Once the investigation is complete, we need to talk about how to proceed,” Harper said, highlighting that the families’ questions extend beyond what the Garda investigation can address.
Leona’s upcoming 18th birthday in January serves as a painful reminder of the life that was cut short. “My daughter was only 14 when she died; she should be here, moving on to the next chapter of her life,” Harper lamented, stressing that no parent should endure the agony of waiting for answers.
The Need for Accountability
Drawing parallels to the Raglan House gas explosion in Dublin in 1987, which saw a dual investigation approach, Harper argued that it should not be the responsibility of families to navigate the complex aftermath of such tragedies. She has urged the government to take decisive action, pointing out that the current situation is untenable.
In response to Harper’s concerns, a spokesperson for the Department of Justice has reiterated the importance of allowing the Garda investigation to proceed without interference, stating that any subsequent inquest or legal proceedings will be conducted transparently. The Garda investigation team has also appealed for witnesses to come forward with any information related to the events prior to the explosion.
Why it Matters
The call for a public inquiry into the Creeslough explosion is not merely about seeking answers; it represents a broader demand for justice and accountability in the face of tragedy. For the families affected, this inquiry could offer a pathway to closure and recognition of their losses. Ensuring that such tragedies are thoroughly investigated is crucial in preventing future incidents and restoring faith in public safety measures. The push for dialogue with the government reflects a community united in grief and determination, seeking to ensure that the memories of their loved ones are not forgotten.