Big Irish welcome for Chernobyl children on respite holiday
Ireland has given a rousing reception for children affected by the aftermath of the Chernobyl nuclear disaster.
Chernobyl Children International (CCI) welcomed a group of the children at Shannon Airport last week before they were taken to Dublin in what marks two decades of the charity’s rest and recuperation programme
In all five flights brought a total of 500 Chernobyl children into Ireland as part of CCI’s annual programme, during which they will be hosted by families the length and breadth of the country who have raised thousands of euro to support their visit.
CCI chief executive Adi Roche praised the Irish people for the wonderful support they have given and continue to give to the Chernobyl children.
“While the accident happened over a quarter of a century ago, the consequences will last to infinity,” she said. “With deepest gratitude I am heartened by the knowledge that over 500 children will receive the recuperation that they so desperately need.
“Despite the recession, Irish families continue to thrust their hands out to the children of Chernobyl. This is an extraordinary achievement made possible by the unwavering commitment of these families.”
Many of the children making the trip come from very impoverished backgrounds in Belarus.
While giving the children a memorable summer holiday, their trip to Ireland also provides respite from the high levels of radiation to which they continue to be exposed as a result of the Chernobyl disaster. According to CCI, the summer is a particularly dangerous time in their home region as the intense heat can cause a spike in radiation levels.
Research has shown that the children’s radiation levels drop by as much as 50 per cent during their stay in Ireland. Many of the children suffer from a variety of Chernobyl-related illnesses and receive ongoing medical treatment while in Ireland.
The arrival of this summers’ children brings the total number of children who have benefited under the scheme since 1991 to over 22,000.
