Sinn Féin Backs Calls for Public Inquiry into Creeslough Tragedy

Letterkenny, Ireland – Sinn Féin leader Mary Lou McDonald has reiterated her support for a public inquiry into the explosion that occurred in Creeslough, County Donegal, on October 7, 2022, which claimed the lives of ten people. McDonald made the call following a meeting with bereaved families in Letterkenny on Monday, March 9, 2026.

Families Seek Answers Three Years After Tragedy

The explosion at a service station and apartment complex in Creeslough resulted in the deaths of four men, three women, and three children, ranging in age from five to 59. McDonald emphasized that three and a half years have passed since the tragedy, and families remain without answers to many crucial questions.

Call for Justice Minister to Meet with Families

McDonald urged Justice Minister Jim O’Callaghan to meet with the families “without any delay.” She stated that a public inquiry is “essential” and can proceed alongside the ongoing criminal investigation, a position previously confirmed by a former Garda Commissioner. She described the current situation as “cruel and unnecessary,” expressing sympathy for the families’ “unthinkable grief.”

Garda Investigation Update

Gardaí submitted a primary file to the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions on September 29, 2025, and a second file is anticipated shortly. Despite the progress of the investigation, bereaved family members continue to advocate for a public inquiry to complement the Garda’s work.

Minister O’Callaghan’s Position

Recent reports indicate that Minister O’Callaghan has declined a previous opportunity to meet with the families, citing the advanced stage of the ongoing criminal investigation. This decision has reportedly caused “huge hurt” to the families, according to McDonald.

Sinn Féin’s Commitment

McDonald affirmed Sinn Féin’s commitment to working with the families and vowed to raise their concerns with the Taoiseach and the Justice Minister. She believes a public inquiry can occur concurrently with the criminal investigation, as previously indicated by the former Garda Commissioner. McDonald was accompanied by Pearse Doherty TD and Pádraig MacLochlainn TD during the meeting with the families.

Key Takeaways

• Sinn Féin is actively supporting the families’ call for a public inquiry into the Creeslough tragedy.
• Mary Lou McDonald has urged Justice Minister Jim O’Callaghan to meet with the families.
• The Garda investigation is ongoing, with files submitted to the Director of Public Prosecutions.
• Families believe a public inquiry is necessary to address unanswered questions.