A new public artwork is to be commissioned in Waterford to honour survivors of abuse and provide a permanent place for reflection in the city.

Waterford City and County Council has announced plans for a sculpture at the Memorial Garden on the Mall, which it hopes will represent the resilience of people who have experienced abuse, injustice or trauma.

Expressions of interest will be sought from artists in the coming weeks.

The successful artist will be required to engage with survivors and community representatives during the development of the artwork.

The Council says their involvement will be an important part of ensuring the finished piece appropriately reflects the experiences of survivors.

The Memorial Garden already contains a number of commemorations, including memorials relating to the 1916 Rising, the Spanish Civil War and the 2,977 people who lost their lives in the September 11 attacks.

Mayor of Waterford City and County, Cllr. Liam Brazil said the artwork could not undo the suffering experienced by survivors but could provide a lasting acknowledgement.

‘No memorial can take away the pain and no apology can undo the suffering, however, we hope that this commemorative piece will serve as a lasting symbol of strength and resilience, and act as a beacon of hope for those who have experienced injustice.’

Council Chief Executive Sean McKeown said engagement with survivors will be ‘crucial’ in ensuring the finished artwork is a fitting memorial.