30 new park benches to be installed to commemorate people lost to Covid-19

The Lord Mayor of Dublin Hazel Chu has today launched the first of 30 new park benches to be installed across the city in memory of people we have lost to Covid-19.

Chu said she wanted to respond in some way on behalf of the citizens of Dublin, to the effects of the Covid-19 Pandemic.

Working with the Parks Division, a scheme to install the new memorial park benches in the beautiful surroundings of our city parks, was decided upon.

Speaking at today’s launch in Ranelagh Gardens Park, the Lord Mayor said: “As I come to end of my term of office as Lord Mayor during what has been the most extraordinary of times, I wanted to pay homage to those who have lost loved-ones over the past sixteen months of this pandemic.

“These benches which Dublin City Council Parks Department and I worked on will offer people an opportunity to sit in nature, reflect and remember those who have died.

“I believe the quote from Katharine Tynan’s poem, Farewell, which appears on each bench, may provide some solace and hope to people in the days ahead.”

City Parks Superintendent, Les Moore, said: “There has never been a time when the parks of the city have been so important to its citizens for recreation but also respite from the confines of their dwelling place.

“The new benches I’m sure will be very much welcomed by people who seek to rest and enjoy being close to nature.”

The remaining benches will be installed at a number of locations in the weeks and months ahead.