Former Stardust Manager Reveals Damning Testimony on Fatal 1981 Fire
Eamon Butterly, the former manager of the Stardust club, has provided shocking testimony during the ongoing inquests into the tragic 1981 fire that claimed the lives of 48 people. Butterly, who began giving evidence for a second day at the Dublin District Coroners Court, made a series of revelations that shed light on the horrifying events of that fateful night.
The inquests, held in the Pillar Room of the Rotunda Hospital, proceeded with Coroner Dr Myra Cullinane and a 13-person jury in attendance. Counsel for the inquests, Gemma McLoughlin Burke, continued her rigorous questioning of Butterly, delving into the events surrounding the outbreak of the fire.
According to Butterly’s testimony, he was informed about the fire at approximately 1:30 am and immediately instructed the staff to call emergency services. He personally witnessed the fire in the west alcove, atop the seats, where two or three doormen were desperately trying to extinguish it with fire extinguishers. Reacting swiftly, Butterly urged them to prioritize evacuating the patrons instead.
When asked about the functionality of the fire extinguishers, Butterly claimed that nobody informed him of any malfunctions. Additionally, he clarified that despite being the manager, he was not the owner of the Stardust and emphasized that his father held that position.
However, it was during the cross-examination by Michael O’Higgins, representing victims’ families, that Butterly made a highly significant revelation. O’Higgins questioned him about the locked fire exits on disco nights, to which Butterly responded that it was the head doorman, Tom Kennan, who had initiated the practice.
Notably, Butterly clarified that he did not intend to shift blame onto Kennan, despite this revelation. Kennan’s actions regarding the locked fire exits will likely raise further questions as the inquests progress.
Relatives of the victims of the tragic fire were present once again during the emotional morning session of the inquests. It is anticipated that Butterly will remain in the witness box for the remainder of the day, providing additional insight into the distressing events surrounding the fire.
The ongoing inquests are crucial for bringing out the truth and providing closure to the families affected by this tragic incident. With each new testimony and revelation, the investigation inch closer to uncovering the full extent of the factors contributing to the loss of 48 lives that fateful night in 1981.
