A DONEGAL TD has paid tribute to his father who was killed 40 years ago in a tunnel explosion in Glasgow, honouring him for instilling in him a strong work ethic and shaping who he has become.
100% Redress TD Charles Ward this week marked the milestone anniversary of his father Charlie’s passing on January 6, 1986. His father died alongside fellow tunnel tigers Cathal Roarty and Peter Moore, who were tragically killed in the same explosion.
The Arranmore native, who is a homeowner affected by defective concrete, was elected to Dáil Éireann in November 2024. The move was historic, with the 100% Redress Party only having been officially formed in September 2023 in response to the defective blocks crisis, which is impacting thousands of families across the county.
The 100% Redress TD reflected on his family’s loss, and how, at just nine years of age, he had to step up to help look after his three younger brothers.
Charles Ward, 100% Redress Party TD.
“The 6th of January is always a sad day for me and my family. This day marks 40 years since my father was killed in a tunnel explosion in Glasgow. On that day he left work like every other day but he never came home. I was nine years old and now had the responsibility of stepping up to help look after my three younger brothers. That has shaped who I am.”
Deputy Ward revealed how the difficult experience of losing his dad at such a young age led him to where he is today, fighting for justice for people whose lives have been turned upside down by living in crumbling homes defective concrete blocks.
“This time of the year has always been extremely difficult for me but I always look back with pride on how much my father did for my family and how hard he worked. Dad taught me work ethic.
“This experience is exactly why I am here today as TD for the 100% Redress Party and why I fight for justice and for the people of Donegal.
“This fight is more than political; it is personal in so many ways. Whether it is a tunnel in 1986 or a collapsing home in 2026; I know that families deserve safety, accountability and a Government that stands by them during the dark times.”
“Remembering Cathal Roarty and Peter Moore who were also so tragically killed in the same explosion. My thoughts, prayers and solidarity are with their families. May these three hardworking family men rest in peace.”
