Apology to O’Farrell family just and deserved – Maxwell

The family of the late Shane O’Farrell have rightly received an apology from the State, said a Fine Gael TD.

Deputy David Maxwell, TD for Cavan-Monaghan, said the O’Farrell family have run a courageous and relentless campaign for justice and that he hopes this week’s apology from the Government can bring the family some comfort and closure.

Deputy Maxwell said: “Ever since that awful day in August 2011, the O’Farrell family have never given up in their campaign for answers and for justice. I very much welcome this Government apology, delivered by the Justice Minister, which would not have happened were it not for the courage and determination of Lucia, Jim, Hannah, Gemma, Aimee and Pia.

“Shane’s death plunged the community of Carrickmacross into a deep sense of grief, shock and numbness. It was a community that lost one of their own; a 23-year-old young man with his entire life, a bright future lying ahead of him. I hope this apology goes some way to bringing the O’Farrell family some comfort and closure. I also very much welcome the announcement today that a Senior Counsel will be appointed to examine our bail laws before reporting back with proposed changes.

“The fact of the matter is the man responsible for Shane’s death should never have been out on bail.

“I very much hope that this review results in positive changes to our bail laws so that this sort of awful tragedy never happens to any family again.

“Finally, I think it is only fitting that the Government will now set up a new bursary in the School of Law in UCD, in memory of Shane O’Farrell.  This is a small but fitting tribute to Shane and will ensure that his memory is always kept alive,” concluded Deputy Maxwell.