Why on earth is a public garden in Kilrush named in honour of the Vandeleurs???
The Vandeleurs were responsible for mass evictions and starvation, directly contributing to the deaths of over 20,000 people in West Clare
CHANGE THE NAME!
The Vandeleur name still hangs over a public garden in Kilrush—while their victims lie in mass graves, their names lost and forgotten.
We call for a new name and a permanent memorial to those who suffered and died under Vandeleur control during the Great Hunger.
The Vandeleurs partied on while tens of thousands in their care starved to death
Help speak for the silenced victims – add your name to the Petition!
To: Clare County Council and Kilrush Amenity Trust CLG (the owners and operators of Vandeleur Walled Garden)
We, the undersigned, call for the immediate renaming of the Vandeleur Walled Garden in Kilrush, County Clare.
This beautiful public space should not continue to honour the name of the Vandeleur family, whose actions during the Great Hunger contributed to mass evictions, starvation, and unimaginable suffering for the people of this region.
Kilrush was chosen as the site for the National Famine Commemoration because of the level of suffering caused by the Vandeleurs. It is entirely inappropriate to celebrate the name of those responsible for so much harm.
We urge Clare County Council, the Kilrush Amenity Trust, and those responsible for the site to take action now. Rename the garden. Honour the victims, not the perpetrators.
✅ Thank you. Your name has been added to the petition.
Important Note Regarding the Garden and Its Staff
There is no question that the garden is a local treasure, and the people who care for it – across groundskeeping, hospitality, and visitor services – deserve the highest praise.
Let there be no confusion: this is not a critique of the garden itself or of the dedicated staff who maintain and operate it.
This conversation is about something else entirely: acknowledging the legacy of the tens of thousands who suffered due to the Vandeleurs’ indifference and inaction.
The garden and its facilities are exceptional. The issue lies with its name, not its people or place.
Justice for the Famine Victims Committee 