The Disappeared will never become the 'Forgotten'. That's according to Dr Sandra Peake, CEO of the WAVE Trauma Centre , which has supported families of the Disappeared since 1995.
She was speaking from Bragan Bog yesterday where the search for Columba McVeigh who was abducted, murdered and secretly buried by the IRA in 1975 continues. The site was also visited by Minister Simon and Heather Humphreys, Minister of Social Protection both of whom met with Oliver McVeigh and Dympna Kerr, Columba's brother and sister; and Maria Lynskey, niece of Joe Lynskey.
Dr Peake added that the families took "comfort and strength" from yesterday's visit which highlighted the tangible manifestation of support at the highest level of Government. "Looking back at the 25 years since the signing of the Good Friday Agreement, it is right that the progress that the peace process has made is acknowledged.
"But it is equally important to recognise that there is unfinished business and the unique cruelty of the Disappeared is an horrific example. Until this issue is resolved and until the remains of Joe Lynskey, Columba McVeigh, Robert Nairac and Seamus Maguire are returned to their families for Christian burial, the peace process will be incomplete.
"And, until those families are reunited, we will continue to campaign; continue to appeal for information; and continue to ensure that the Disappeared will never become the Forgotten," Dr Peake said.
Meanwhile, anyone with information on any of the four outstanding Disappeared cases - Joe Lynskey, Columba McVeigh, Robert Nairac and Seamus Maguire - should contact the Independent Commission for the Location of Victims' Remains (ICLVR).
