Family killer’s legacy of pain

Monster who murdered wife & sons casts long shadow over community

loved ones to find peace. Twelve months on the Garda investigation continues and the inquest, due to be held in October, could be held off until the end of the year.

Until then details of Hawe’s supposed “fall from grace” will remain a secret, outlined only to five relatives and investigating officer.

A friend of Clodagh’s family said: “Alan Hawe fooled so many people over the years but now we know the truth and more truths will come out.

“He was a monster who controlled, connived and cheated and lied. He lied about his very soul, he lied about what was in his head and his heart.

“He lied when he said he had a genuine reason to take the lives of his family. He was a fake, a fraud.”

A Mass was held yesterday for Clodagh, Liam, Niall and Ryan at Castlerahan, where they are buried.

A small group of people attended and said prayers for the gentle teacher who fought to save her boys,

Celebrant Fr Frank Kelleher said: “Lord, only you see the whole picture, both this side of the grave and beyond. We leave all in your hands and ask you to help us as we struggle along seeking meaning in life.” No mention was made of Alan Hawe, his murderous heart, his exhumation, cremation and secret second burial.

And Fr Felim Kelly, the priest who helped to arrange the joint family burial to include Hawe, was absent.

He is expected to hold a Mass later this week for the killer.

Clodagh’s loved ones will not attend. Instead they will battle on to overcome their shock and learn to live with their despair.

In time, they hope when the truth is finally revealed about Hawe’s monstrous mind, they may find peace.