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Grenfell Tower Public Enquiry Formally Opened

The inquiry into the Grenfell Tower fire was formally opened in London, UK, yesterday. Sir Martin Moore-Bick, the enquiry chairman promised that it will provide answers to how such a disaster could happen in 21st century London. Sir Martin stated that he would not shrink away from making recommendations that could lead to prosecutions.

A visit to the area demonstrates both the magnitude of the incident and the sense of loss from a community grieving in the shadow of the burned out remains of Grenfell Tower, a constant reminder of the tragic fire. Messages of love from people within the community and beyond are displayed on the fence of the local church which has become the focus of a community in grief who want answers as to how this tragedy that has torn through their community can have happened.

Sir Martin Moore-Bick described the fire on the 14 June as a “tragedy unprecedented in modern times”. “We are acutely aware that so many people died and that many of those who survived have been severely affected,” he said. “We are also conscious that many have lost everything. “The inquiry cannot undo any of that, but it can and will provide answers to how a disaster of this kind could happen in 21st Century London.”

No evidence was heard on the first day of the hearing, held in central London, and the Chairman did not take any questions afterwards.