At a time when families traditionally gather to celebrate Christmas and welcome the New Year, the absence of a loved one can be felt even more acutely. This is particularly true in cases where questions remain surrounding a person’s disappearance, or where death is suspected but no body has been found, thus preventing the grieving process from beginning.
This week hundreds of people attended a vigil in west Belfast in support of the family of John George, also known as John Hardy, who went missing while traveling in Spain just before Christmas. His relatives last heard from him on December 14, when they received an “anguished” phone call.
His family fear he may have been the victim of a murder and searched an area near Alicante over the festive period to try to find evidence relating to his latest movements.
Search teams from across Europe, including Northern Ireland, have also traveled to Spain to help. John’s father, Billy George, revealed he spoke with a man he suspects of being involved in the incident. As Spanish police continue their investigation, he has made a poignant appeal for anyone with information to show conscience and help bring his son home.
Elsewhere, Northern Police have renewed their appeal for witnesses regarding the disappearance of Martin Kelly, a 19-year-old young man, last seen in a Belfast bar 19 years ago.
Just aged 22, Martin disappeared after leaving Pat’s Bar in the port area shortly after 7pm on New Year’s Day 2005. His father, Raymond, is ensuring his case is not forgotten and has reiterated this week his determination to find answers. Groups supporting the families of the “Disappeared” – those killed and secretly buried during past conflicts – are also expressing hope that 2025 could finally be the year when the missing can be found and their families honored. of a funeral.
There remains the hope that a surge of conscience or a new desire to intervene could bring closure to many families who need it so much, even after five decades.
It is right to feel deep sympathy for the families of Mr. George, of Mr. Kelly, and for all those who still struggle with the uncertainty surrounding the disappearance of a loved one in varying circumstances over the years. Anyone who can provide information about these cases should act accordingly and come forward to provide the assistance needed to end this heavy burden.
Our point of view
The stories of disappearances and family losses are poignant and often emotionally charged. While we can be empathetic to these families seeking answers, it is also crucial to reflect on the importance of forensic investigations in international contexts. Collaboration between police from different countries can sometimes seem slow and complicated, but it is fundamental to ensuring justice and peace, values which must take precedence in our increasingly interconnected European society.
- Source image(s) : www.irishnews.com
- Source : https://www.irishnews.com/opinion/information-about-missing-people-needed-now-to-give-families-closure-they-deserve-the-irish-news-view-Q4RAYFDR2NBSBPNQSK2AW4XOHI/
