08/09/2015

Remains Of 'Disappeared' Confirmed As Seamus Wright And Kevin McKee

Two bodies discovered in a bog in the Republic of Ireland in June are those of Seamus Wright and Kevin McKee, two of the Disappeared.

Mr Wright and Mr McKee, who were both members of the IRA, were abducted and murdered in 1972.

A statement from the Independent Commission for the Location of Victims' Remains (ICLVR) said: "The results positively indicate that the remains are those of Seamus Wright and Kevin McKee.

"Dr Brian Farrell, coroner for the city of Dublin has accepted this as evidence of identification and will shortly authorise the release of the remains to the families. The thoughts of everyone in the Commission are with the Wright and McKee families at this difficult time."

Sinn Fein leader Gerry Adams TD welcomed the confirmation and said it will bring an end to the uncertainty for the McKee and Wright families.

Mr Adams said: "I want to thank everyone who has helped in the search for the remains of those who were killed and secretly buried by the IRA. Republicans have cooperated fully with the Commission and we now need to continue to do our utmost to bring closure for the remaining families.

"Today's confirmation is an important step toward achieving this."

Mr Adams also renewed his appeal for anyone with information on the remains still not found to contact the ICLVR.

Fianna Fáil Spokesperson Brendan Smith TD said: "Today our thoughts are with the families of Mr Wright and Mr McKee. After 33 years, they can finally lay their loved ones to rest.

"The treatment of these men and the fourteen other Disappeared remains a scar on the conscience of this country. After sixteen years of searching, four families still do not know where their loved ones were buried.

"At the same time there are people out there who know the truth of what happened but continue to refuse to come forward. I again appeal to them, if they have any shred of decency, to finally come forward and help to give those families some peace in the terrible ordeal that they have suffered for so long."

(CD)

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