Call for new enquiry into Ludlow murder
THE family of murdered north Louth man Seamus Ludlow met with Garda Commissioner Drew Harris yesterday morning (Monday).
Relatives of the 47 year old forestry worker were joined by their solicitor at the meeting with Commissioner Harris, and are calling for a brand new investigation into the murder.
Seamus Ludlow was on his way home from Dundalk when he was reported to have been killed by loyalists, including a number of members of the UDR.
The family have long campaigned for justice. They described their first meeting with the Garda commissioner as ‘positive.’
Meanwhile Louth TD Gerry Adams said that Commissioner Drew Harris must assist the family of Seamus Ludlow.
Gerry Adams said: ‘ The family of Seamus Ludlow, who was murdered near his home in Dundalk in 1976, have been campaigning to get the truth of the circumstances of his death for 43 years.’
‘In 2006 the Barron Commission recognised the serious failure by this state to investigate the killing appropriately and it recommended that the government establish two commissions of investigation. Barron also noted the shameful way in which the family had been treated by An Garda Síochána.’
He said: ‘ Successive governments have failed to establish these investigations and have blocked the Ludlow family at every instance.’
‘ The Garda Commissioner had an opportunity to answer some of the questions the family have regarding the conduct of some Gardaí at the time of Seamus’ killing. He should also provide a rationale for the continued failure of the Gardaí to question four men identified as suspects in 1979.’
Deputy Adams called for a new investigation into the murder.
‘Commissioner Harris should initiate a fresh inquiry, under a new investigative team, to finally provide this family with the truth into Seamus’ killing.’
Dundalk councillor Ruaírí Ó Murchú also added: ‘I commend the family of Seamus Ludlow for their perseverance and tenacity over two generations.’
He added: ‘It is very unfair that there has not been more support from the government and state agencies to date and I hope that this family reaches the truth behind this brutal killing.’