TAOISEACH MICHEÁL MARTIN paid tribute to the “extraordinary courage and resilience” of all those who have endured the legacy of the Chornobyl nuclear plant explosion which occurred forty years ago today.

Whilst in attendance at a commemorative service held by the Greater Chornobyl Cause at Bishop Lucey Park in Cork today, the Taoiseach said that it was important to pause and remember a tragedy which changed the course of countless lives.

“Ireland stands shoulder to shoulder with the survivors, the heroic liquidators, and all those still suffering—both from the consequences of the disaster and the horrors of conflict.”

Martin said that the ongoing war in Ukraine reminds us “that the struggle for dignity, safety, and hope is far from over.”

He described the “unwavering dedication” of the Cork-based Greater Chornobyl Cause charity as a testament to the power of compassion and the strength of community.

“Ireland will continue to support and advocate for all those affected by Chornobyl, ensuring their stories are never forgotten and their needs never overlooked.

“On this solemn anniversary, we renew our commitment to solidarity, remembrance, and humanitarian action. Together, we can help bring hope and healing where it is needed most.”

The charity founder Fiona Corcoran recently travelled deep into the Chornobyl exclusion zone to meet survivors and witness first-hand the ongoing hardships faced by those living in the shadow of the disaster—now compounded by the brutal realities of war.

Corcoran said that in town like Ivankiv, just forty minutes from Chornobyl, the echoes of history blend with the harsh realities of today.

“Elderly women who survived Chornobyl and now endure war are isolated and frail. The heroes who once shielded the world—known as ‘liquidators’—are left behind, facing age, illness, and abandonment.”

Corcoran said the pain of Chornobyl endures in the lives of children with life-limiting illnesses, in the isolation of the elderly, and in the memories of those who lost everything.

“Now, as war against Ukraine rages into its fifth year, new wounds are opened on old scars, and suffering is compounded. The resilience and dignity of the survivors continue to inspire us, even in the face of unimaginable hardship,” she said.

For decades, The Greater Chornobyl Cause has delivered critical humanitarian aid—medical supplies, food, clothing, shelter, and more—to those most in need.

Corcoran said the charity is spearheading an urgent effort to open a second inpatient care home at the former Prybirsk District Hospital.

“Essential repairs have begun, but much remains: power, water, sewerage, heating, ventilation, and lighting.

“The very people waiting for care now are those who once shielded the world from the fallout of Chornobyl. Their sacrifice shaped our future; now they need us.”

Today’s service brought together government officials, the Irish Defence Forces, An Garda Síochána, Cork City Fire Brigade, school children, and both local and Ukrainian communities. The programme included an ecumenical service and a roll call of victims.

Musical tributes included a performance of the Ukrainian national anthem performed by children from Goggin’s Hill national school in Cork and songs from members of the Ukrainian community in the city.

Ambassador of Ukraine to Ireland Larysa Geraskowas in attendance alongside the Lord Mayor of Cork Fergal Dennehy. Speeches were also made by councillors Dan Boyle and Ciara O’Connor. The service closed with a lowering of the national mast to half flag.