The Government has announced a new scheme of ex gratia recognition payments for people who were injured in the Stardust fire, marking the latest step in addressing issues arising from the 2024 inquest into the tragedy.
Minister for Justice, Home Affairs and Migration Jim O’Callaghan confirmed the details of the scheme today, describing it as the second phase of a two part redress process.
The first phase, completed in August 2025, focused on the families of those who were unlawfully killed in the fire.
The newly approved phase will apply to all survivor beneficiaries of the original Stardust Victims Compensation Tribunal.
The announcement comes as the 45th anniversary of the fire approaches. The tragedy at the Stardust nightclub on February 14, 1981 claimed the lives of 48 people and left many others injured.
Announcing the scheme, Minister O’Callaghan said: “I am very conscious that the 45th anniversary of the Stardust tragedy is imminent.
“In announcing the details today of Phase Two of the recognition payments, I want to remember the 48 victims who were unlawfully killed during the terrible events of 14 February 1981 and their families, who continue to deal with the legacy of such a profound and terrible loss.
“I also want to recognise today the survivors who were injured during this horrific event.
“This will fulfil the Government’s commitment to implement a two-phased approach to Stardust redress.
“Payments in respect of Phase One of the redress, for the families of those so tragically killed in the fire, were completed in August last year.
“Phase Two, which I am announcing today, will provide for ex gratia recognition to all survivor beneficiaries of the original Stardust Victims Compensation Tribunal.”
The Minister said the intention is to make the process straightforward and accessible for survivors.
He stressed that it would not require a significant burden of proof and would avoid unnecessary bureaucracy. It is also designed so that people can apply without needing legal assistance.
Minister O’Callaghan continued: “I am determined that the process that will now be implemented will be as simple as possible.
“It will not place a significant burden of proof on survivors, or be overly bureaucratic, and it will be accessible without legal assistance.
“It is not intended to constitute ‘compensation’ for the injuries and trauma sustained by those who survived the fire, as that was the scope of the original tribunal, but instead, what is proposed is a payment which recognises the delays in providing truth and justice.
“Given the passage of time, it is also of the utmost importance that the proposal does not give rise to any further trauma for applicants.
“My department will now prepare arrangements for the implementation of this scheme. Full details, including the simplified applications process, will be available shortly.”
The second phase of payments is intended to formally acknowledge the long wait for answers and justice faced by survivors. Further details on how the scheme will operate, including how people can apply, are expected to be released soon.