Ukrainian ambassador on Clare visit hears appeal for end to war

Ukrainian refugees in Lisdoonvarna have implored the country’s ambassador to Ireland to send a message out to world leaders to stop the conflict now.

Larysa Gerasko, the Ukrainian ambassador to Ireland was in Lisdoonvarna on Saturday and met many of the 500 refugees, who have been living in the village for the past number of weeks. In total there are nearly 1000 Ukrainian people living in North and West Clare.

Marcus White, owner of the Hydro hotel, said that there were emotional scenes, as the Ukrainian people, along with members of the local community met the ambassador at the Pavilion theatre.

“They delivered a strong message to Ms Gerasko, which was to call on world leaders to bring in a ceasefire and stop the senseless conflict now, before any more men, women and children from either side lose their lives.” he said.

“Our message is not only addressed to Europe but to all world leaders in the countries, like India, China, this bloodshed affects us all. Stop the War! Protect our children!”

Mr White, whose late father Jim White was a well-known politician, said the Ukrainians were desperately looking for a platform to get their message out to all political and religious leaders and for action to be taken immediately. He said a handwritten message displayed on a white board, had been particularly touching:

“We have a dream to get our peaceful life back in our home country and wish everyone in the world, that they haven’t such a dream.”

He said: “These people are traumatised and have suffered so much. As a hotelier I am doing everything I can to help, but it is the overwhelming response of the local community in Clare which must be acknowledged.”

Senator Martin Conway said, “I thank Ambassador Gerasko for taking the time to visit Lisdoonvarna and Ballyvaughan today to meet directly with the Ukrainian people who have arrived in North Clare, and also the people involved in the community response.”

Ambassador Gerasko was updated on the countywide response by the Cathaoirleach of Clare County Council Councillor PJ Ryan and the Chief Executive Pat Dowling.

She met with some of the accommodation providers and their staff, and also met with some of the teachers who will be teaching the nearly 200 Ukrainian children who are starting school in the area.

Senator Conway said, “Of the approximately 12,000 Ukrainian people to arrive in Ireland so far, almost 1,500 of them are being accommodated in Clare, with significant numbers in the Lisdoonvarna area.

“The professionalism of the community response has been phenomenal and perhaps it can act as a template for other communities as more and more Ukrainian refugees arrive in Ireland.”

“I thank Councillor Joe Garrihy for helping to lead the community response in Clare and I am proud that the people of Clare have wholeheartedly supported this effort, with a warm welcome for people in need since they began arriving here over the St. Patrick’s Day holiday period.”