Call on Taoiseach to issue public apology over Whiddy Island disaster

The Taoiseach should issue a public apology to families of the victims of the Whiddy Island disaster and those deaths should be ruled unlawful an organiser of events to mark 40 years since the tragedy said in remarks which drew a standing ovation from those gathered.

In a lengthy and forceful address at the memorial Mass held in Bantry’s St Finbarr’s Church yesterday, Michael Kingston, who lost his father, Tim, in the disaster, also opened up the possibility of a legal challenge in the High Court that could pave the way for a fresh inquiry. Mr Kingston, an internationally renowned lawyer who specialises in maritime safety, likened the Whiddy Island disaster to the Hillsborough disaster, and demanded what he called “full disclosure” from Government.