The Chair of Fermanagh and Omagh District Council addressed a ‘Justice for Noah Donohoe’ rally in Enniskillen on Saturday afternoon, and called for “absolute transparency” in relation to the case of Belfast teenager Noah (14), who died in unknown circumstances in June, 2020.
Speaking to the rally held at The Diamond area, Councillor Barry McElduff said: “I am one of 15 elected Sinn Féin members and I am currently the Cathaoirleach, or Chairperson of the Council, so I do speak on behalf of our party grouping, and I do speak as the Council Chair, and I think that part is symbolically important.
“There are many serious questions to be asked concerning every single aspect of Noah’s disappearance and the subsequent investigation, or lack of investigation,” he claimed, adding: “We all demand absolute transparency.”
Those who came to the rally were welcomed by Leah Smyth, one of the organisers. Many of the speakers addressed the Public Interest Immunity (PII) application from the PSNI to withhold sensitive material from the inquest, citing security issues.
Councillor McElduff said: “The PSNI request to use that certificate to conceal the truth, and also the British government’s agreement to use it, is wrong and shameful.”
Others who spoke included Councillor Eamonn Keenan, Independent, who said: “I was asked to come here to speak as a councillor, but I also speak as a father. I have a daughter of almost 13, and three younger children, and I have been watching this case with sadness and anger.”
Others who joined included two SDLP councillors, Adam Gannon and John Coyle. Councillor Gannon said: “We live in a society where too many families have had to take up a campaign for truth in the name of their loved ones, and the public way in which the Donohoes have been forced to bear their pain is traumatic not just for those who knew and loved Noah, but for so many people who have been touched by his life.”
Councillor John Coyle reiterated the SDLP’s support, and for Councillor Gannon’s comments on other families seeking justice.
The demonstration also heard from Councillor Donal O’Cofaigh, CCLA, and Councillor Emmet McAleer, Independent, who both joined in calls for answers for Noah and the Donohoe family.
The organisers have stated they invited all members of Fermanagh and Omagh District Council to attend the demonstration.
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