Memorial sculpture to be created in Waterford city to honour abuse survivors
The artwork will be located on the Mall in Waterford city
A memorial sculpture is set to be created in Waterford city to honour survivors of abuse.
The artwork will be located in the Memorial Garden on the Mall, with the aim of “providing a place of reflection for survivors, their families and the wider community”.
It comes three months after the Commission of Investigation published its report on the State’s response to the crimes of Waterford paedophile Bill Kenneally.
In the months since, several public representatives have called for Waterford City and County Council to formally honour the survivors of Kenneally’s abuse.
The local authority has said that it has been considering an appropriate way to formally acknowledge those who have survived abuse.
The council will commission a public art piece which it says will “serve as a symbol of hope and healing for all survivors of abuse”.
In the coming weeks, Expressions of Interest will be invited from artists for the creation of a sculpture that “reflects the extraordinary resilience of those who have experienced abuse, injustice, or trauma”.
The council hopes that the public art commission will create a “meaningful and enduring place of remembrance”.
Mayor of Waterford City and County, Cllr. Liam Brazil, welcomed the announcement of the public art commission.
Mayor Brazil said: “No memorial can take away the pain and no apology can undo the suffering.
“However, we hope that this commemorative piece will serve as a lasting symbol of strength and resilience, and act as a beacon of hope for those who have experienced injustice.
“It is important that we acknowledge the experiences of survivors and ensure that their courage is never forgotten. T
“This memorial will provide a permanent place of reflection and remembrance, while also sending a clear message that all survivors are heard, acknowledged, valued and respected.”
Sean McKeown, Chief Executive of Waterford City and County Council, subsequently explained the Expressions of Interest process.
Mr McKeown said: “The commissioned artwork will honour the experiences and resilience of survivors of abuse, while encouraging hope and healing.
“The successful artist will be required to engage with survivors and community representatives in the development of the artwork.
“This engagement will be crucial in ensuring that the final piece is a fitting and worthy memorial to survivors of abuse.”