Chernobyl disaster recalled 38 years on in Cork 

A COMMEMORATIVE ceremony was held yesterday in Cork’s Fitzgerald Park to mark the 38th anniversary of the world’s worst nuclear disaster, remembering those who lost their lives during the Chernobyl tragedy and, more recently, during Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.

The annual event, organised by the Greater Chernobyl Cause, saw a gathering of approximately 70 people come together to stand in solidarity with Ukraine.

The service featured song, poetry, and prayer, with live performances from the Goggins Hill National School choir, Ukrainian singer Zlata Kineska, the Kalyna Choir, Cork singer Charlie McAllister, Cork Penny Dinners Choir, and bugle player William Chester of the Irish Defence Forces.

An address was also given by Ukrainian ambassador to Ireland, Larysa Gerasko; Green Party councillor Colette Finn, Deputy Lord Mayor of Cork; and Cork City South Central Green Party councillor Dan Boyle.

Speeches were given by members of the Ukrainian community, including activists Vira Babych and Olesia Zhytkova, with prayers read by Church of Ireland Reverend Martin Steele and advocate for the elderly in Cork, Paddy O’Brien.

Ms Finn told The Echo that she clearly remembers the day she heard of the Chernobyl disaster unfolding.

“I was listening to the radio,” she said. “I was actually in Africa when I heard of the explosion. There was such little information and we didn’t really realise the magnitude of it at the time. It is so important to mark these events, to remind people, because people get complacent.

“I am privileged and proud to be here,” she added. “I’m hoping that we can now, with the conflict in Ukraine, come up with some solutions.”

Greater Chernobyl Cause founder Fiona Corcoran said: “No one can predict how many victims of the Chernobyl disaster exist to this day, or how many future generations will suffer the after- effects.

“Our focus cannot be on that horrific disaster alone. We are supporting the innocent victims of this brutal war.

“We must not forget them.”

In a moving address to the assembled crowd, Ms Gerasko said the Ukrainian community is grateful for the kindness of Irish people.

“Today we commemorate all of those who suffered,” said Ms Gerasko.

“This changed the lives of millions, forever.

“We are so grateful to Ireland and its people. Ukraine is a peace-loving nation.”