Seán Crowe (Dublin South West, Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

I welcome the families in the Visitors Gallery. I can only imagine the disappointment they feel after believing that this inquiry would unearth the truth once and for all. I recall speaking on this issue in the House last January. It was my view that the way forward was through a full open inquiry. I recall the Minister saying that night that it was unfortunate there was no consensus on this matter. However, there was consensus. It lasted until the Government tabled an amendment and opted for having this limited inquiry. The failures of the inquiry show that a commission of inquiry is now the only way forward and its outcome reinforces that view.

Last January, I spoke about being from that generation and the effect the fire had. I can only imagine the effect it had on the families and the survivors. It scarred so many lives and changed all of us. People from that generation were never the same afterwards. I commend all the young people who bravely and selflessly helped their friends that night. I also thank the first responders. Most importantly, I support the families' demand for a public inquiry. It is the only way forward and the only way the families will get justice. I commend the families again on their sterling work on behalf of the loved ones they lost. As somebody from that generation, I admire the consistency and resolve they have shown through the years. I wish them well.

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