Stardust '81 — Graphic Design graduate Conor Leech introduces his work on the Stardust '81 tragedy with guest speaker Jimmy Fitzpatrick.

13 Jun / 1:00 PM
Duration: 60 minutes
Location: NCAD Harry Clarke House

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Graphic Design graduate, Conor Leech introduces his degree work which centres on the fatal Stardust fire of 1981 that took place at the Stardust nightclub in Artane, Dublin, Ireland. Leech will then welcome guest speaker Jimmy Fitzpatrick, campaigner and motivational speaker who will speak on his experiences as a survivor of the fire.

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Leech’s Grandmother’s three children were among the 48 young victims who lost their lives in the Valentine’s Day disco fire. She has been fighting for justice and the truth for more than 42 years, alongside her other children, the other relatives of the victims, and survivors, in the 'Justice for the 48 Committee'. Their campaign focuses on why, after numerous problems were reported about the Stardust preceding the fire, did Dublin City Council allow the club to open that night, why were the fire doors chained shut, and why no one was ever held accountable for the loss of 48 young lives?

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Conor Leech describes his efforts with this project as a way to maintain the Stardust disaster in the minds of younger generations by assisting his family, other families, and the survivors’ to be heard after decades of a long struggle. Utilising contemporary publications, photography, and posters to help share their stories and challenges.

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