Generosity of Irish in helping Chernobyl victims lauded

ON the 25th anniversary of the nuclear accident in Chernobyl it is timely to pay tribute to the generosity of the people of Ireland over many years in assisting those affected in Belarus, Ukraine and Russia.

Many orphanages, hospitals, day care centres and villages are in a better place now, thanks to the humanitarian efforts of so many.

Thousands of children have a better quality of life, improved living conditions and, most of all, hope for the future that they would not otherwise have but for this intervention.

Over 40 charitable organisations operate in Ireland alone for the benefit of Chernobyl victims. Many more exist throughout Europe.

Each organisation has its own network of volunteers and supporters, all devoting their time and energy towards making life better for those who were forgotten by many. The efforts and identities of many will not be widely known because they seek no recognition for what they do, men and women of all walks of life, working tirelessly to help those less fortunate than themselves, their only reward being the knowledge that they have made a difference.

Opinions may differ in relation to the actual damage caused by the explosion and the number of deaths resulting from it, but one undisputable fact remains. Thousands of children are in need of help for a variety of reasons. Many live in deplorable conditions and many more need medical assistance. This is what inspires the volunteers to do what they do.

None of what has been achieved so far would have been possible without the financial support of the Irish people who dug deeply into their pockets time after time, year after year.

To all those involved, this is an appropriate time to take a collective bow for a tremendous contribution.

Trevor Laffan

Chernobyl Children’s Trust

Navan Rd

Dublin 7