Guerin’s family ask for flyover naming idea to be dropped

The family of murdered journalist Veronica Guerin has asked that South Dublin County Council withdraw its proposal to name the new N7 flyover after her.

In a letter to the chief executive Daniel McLoughlin, her brother Jimmy Guerin said it would be "inappropriate" to name the Newlands Cross flyover after her if the idea turns into a "political football".

The idea first surfaced at the November Clondalkin Area Committee and was put forward by Labour. It was endorsed by Labour TD Robert Dowds supported by the Minister for Transport Paschal Donohoe

It is due to go before South Dublin County Council’s land use planning and transportation committee next week. If approved, it is also due to go out to public consultation.

Sinn Féin has objected to the flyover being named after her on the basis that it would create a hierarchy of gangland murder victims. Sinn Féin councillor Jonathan Graham has said there is already a memorial to Veronica Guerin on the N7. Mrs Guerin was shot dead at traffic lights on the old Naas Road in 1996.

In response, Mr Guerin said the family “fully respect the right of certain individuals to object to Veronica’s memory being honoured in this way. I am of the view that some of the comments by members of the council are in fact disrespectful to her memory. It may well be that this was not the intention.

“I would be obliged if you would advise the members of this committee that, in light of the controversy, Veronica’s family would be happier if the proposal was, in fact, withdrawn altogether.”