Daily Mirror (Northern Ireland)
DISAPPEARED MUST NEVER BE FORGOTTEN
Nesbitt speaks of ‘pain and anguish’ felt by families
JAMES Nesbitt said the recent death of his father has “brought home to him the deep and lasting pain and anguish” felt by the families of the Disappeared.
The long-time patron of the Wave Trauma Centre was speaking yesterday at a ceremony to remember those whose remains have never been found.
The actor, who has given his support to Families Of The Disappeared, added: “The death of a deeply loved family member is always hard to take whatever the circumstances.
“But to know that your loved met a violent end and not to know where they were buried for years and years brings almost unimaginable pain and anguish.
“That is what the Families Of The Disappeared have had to endure.
“For the families of Joe Lynskey, Columba Mcveigh, Robert Nairac and Lisa Dorrian that agony continues and will not begin to ease until they are brought home.
“Someone, somewhere must have information that could lead to their remains being found.
“In the name of humanity they should give that information up.”
Fellow Wave patron and artist
Colin Davidson said: “Walter Simons was among the 18 victims and survivors of the Troubles whose portraits I painted for [exhibition] Silent Testimony.
“His son Eugene was 26 when he was abducted, murdered and secretly buried in 1981. His remains were recovered three years later.
“Walter’s quiet dignity was hugely impressive and it was clear that even though Eugene’s remains had been returned and there was a grave to visit, that feeling of profound loss had never left him.
“How much more acute it must be for those still waiting for the day they can lay their loved ones to rest.”
Geoff Knupfer, lead investigator with the Independent Commission for the Location of Victims’ Remains, called for help finding the remaining Disappeared.
He said: “We are down to three cases now from 16 and while Lisa Dorrian’s disappearance is outside the
ICLVR’S remit, we hope progress can be made there too.
“Anyone with information can be absolutely assured it will be treated in the strictest confidence. We can only help these families if people with information come forward.”
At the Wave ceremony, which took place on International Day Of The Disappeared, four white doves were released to represent Mr Lynskey, Mr Mcveigh, Mr Nairac and Ms Dorrian.
They were set free by family members.
A fifth dove was released for others at home and abroad who believe their loved ones are dead and secretly buried. Anyone with information relating to the Disappeared is asked to contact Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or fill in the anonymous form at www. crimestoppers-uk. org.
Agony will not ease until they are brought home JAMES NESBITT ON SEARCH FOR VICTIMS