Courts / Ireland / Report
Stardust assistant manager knew doors were being locked, inquest told
2023-07-07
Trial
Summary
During the 1981 Stardust inquiry, assistant manager Jack Walsh testified that he knew emergency exits were being locked between 10 pm and 12:30 am in the weeks before the fire that killed 48 people. He admitted he was aware of the practice and that it contravened bylaws, but denied authorising it and said he did nothing to stop it. Walsh also said he was not aware of chains wrapped around door bars, did not know a doorman could keep the keys, and believed the head doorman would handle emergency procedures. He claimed he had no role in ensuring safety and that he thought patrons were already being looked after. Walsh's statements were read to the jury in the Rotunda Hospital. The inquest will resume next Tuesday.
Who, what, where, when and why
What: Report matter: Stardust assistant manager knew doors were being locked, inquest told. Procedural stage: trial
When:
- Friday, February 13 Other
- Christmas Incident
- 2023-07-07 Publication
Why: His sister came to his house and told him to "get down there quick" because "the place is in flames". CNI source report
Places mentioned
- Rotunda Hospital
- was told at Coolock Garda Station
Topics
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