ANTI drug protesters and members of the public held a rally yesterday to commemorate the death of journalist, Veronica Guerin, a month after her murder.
Flowers were laid at the scene of the killing on the Naas Road, and protesters carried placards reading "dealers out" and "save our children from heroin". Anger was expressed by some people at the failure of any political representatives to appear, despite being invited.
The rally was organised by The Shrew, an anti-drugs newspaper which, according to its editor, Mr Joseph Anderson, is dedicated to providing "real information" about drug issues.
"Veronica Guerin's sacrifice will live on in the hearts of the people for a long time. When the drug barons killed her they were frying to extinguish the voice of democracy they will never do that."
Ms Geraldine Croker, of the North Clondalkin Community Development Group, said. "The death of Veronica really touched me as an ordinary citizen. I just hope the memory of her death remains in everybody's mind."
A representative of the anti drug group in the Fettercairn area of Tallaght said the measures introduced by the Government were insufficient. "You can have all the laws you like, but when you are not putting money into local action you will never solve the problem." A "month's mind" Mass was celebrated for Ms Guerin in the Church of Our Lady, Queen of Heaven, Dublin Airport, last night by Father Declan Doyle. Close family members attended.
A folk mass will be celebrated in Rathmines church at 6 p.m. tomorrow by Father Heber McMahon, who officiated at the marriage of Ms Guerin and Graham Turley.