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Code of silence surrounding Tom Oliver murder by IRA must end – O’Dowd

19th July 2021 - Fergus O'Dowd TD

The code of silence surrounding the IRA murder of a Louth farmer thirty years ago must come to an end in order to secure truth, justice and accountability for his family, a Fine Gael TD has said.

Louth TD Deputy Fergus O’Dowd said it is time for justice for Tom Oliver who was abducted and shot by the IRA in 1991.

Deputy O’Dowd said, “Thirty years on from the savage killing of Louth man Tom Oliver by the IRA, progress has been made with the recent uncovering of new DNA evidence, which investigators believe could lead to a prosecution.

“Tom Oliver was killed in a vile and appalling murder, and his family have fought tooth and nail for justice and closure since the day he died. While the news in recent days of the uncovering of new evidence is very much welcome, it is believed there are some people in the local community who have additional information that could further assist in the investigation.

“Anyone who has information about this horrific murder should come forward and assist investigators, so that those culpable will be held responsible and the Oliver family can finally find truth, justice and accountability.

“The code of silence surrounding this murder by the IRA must come to an end. What is urgently needed is the information that some people still hold. Those with any knowledge surrounding the events of July 1991 must come forward and share it with the local police to aid in the search for truth for the Oliver family.

“There must be no amnesty for these criminals who commit evil acts of terrorism; criminals who have killed innocent people and destroyed families and communities,” concluded Deputy O’Dowd.