Commemorative plaque unveiled for Dublin firefighters

A plaque commemorated three firefighters who died at Exide Batteries on 5 October 1936
Peter McArdle, Robert Malone and Thomas Nugent lost their lives in the line of duty
The ceremony took place outside the Naughton Institute at Trinity College Dublin
More than 80,000 people attended the civic funeral to Glasnevin Cemetery
The plaque is the 78th approved under Dublin City Council’s Commemorative Plaques Scheme

Dublin City Council has unveiled a commemorative plaque marking the 90th anniversary of a fire at the former Exide Batteries premises on Pearse Street. The plaque has honoured Firemen Peter McArdle, Robert Malone and Thomas Nugent who died on 5 October 1936. The ceremony has taken place outside the Naughton Institute at Trinity College Dublin.

Lord Mayor of Dublin Daryl Barron unveiled the plaque at a ceremony attended by the Chief Fire Officer, public representatives and members of the firefighters’ families. Professor Damian Murchan represented the Provost of Trinity College Dublin. Members of Dublin Fire Brigade and the Dublin Fire Brigade Retired Members Association attended along with representatives of the Irish Traditional Music Archive.

The tragedy remains the greatest loss of life suffered by Dublin Fire Brigade in a single incident. Firefighters entered the burning building believing a family was trapped inside when explosions caused much of the building to collapse. The firefighters’ remains were recovered the following morning after removal of approximately 30 tons of rubble. More than 80,000 people lined the streets for the civic funeral to Glasnevin Cemetery.

Lord Mayor of Dublin Daryl Barron shared “The night of 5 October 1936 resonates not only in the history of Dublin Fire Brigade, but in the history of our city. Ninety years later, we gather here to remember Peter McArdle, Robert Malone and Thomas Nugent and to acknowledge the extraordinary sacrifice they made in the service of the people of Dublin.”