A brother of one of the victims of the 1972 Belturbet bombing has called on those responsible to “come forward and do the right thing,” as the community in Belturbet, County Cavan marked the 50th anniversary of the bomb blast which killed two and injured eight.

The families of Patrick Stanley (16) and Geraldine O’Reilly (15) gathered with the community in Belturbet yesterday (Wednesday) for a wreath laying ceremony at the site of the bomb, a Mass was held prior to the wreath laying ceremony.

Anthony O’Reilly, brother of Geraldine O’Reilly called for the perpetrators to do the right thing in a statement released to press prior to the commemorations.

Mr. O’Reilly said: “For 50 long years our family, the Stanleys and others directly impacted by the bomb have nursed an open wound; we have been denied justice and accountability concerning who was responsible for the bomb and nor are we clear upon why it was done.”

“We appeal as a family who have been hurt for those responsible and others who have information concerning those events to come forward and do the right thing, surely you cannot live easily with the murders of two innocent children on your hearts and consciences.”

The appeal from the family comes as An Garda Síochana released photo fit images of two men they believe to be the drivers of cars that were stolen the night of the December 28, 1972 when three no warning bombs exploded in Belturbet, Clones, Co. Monaghan and Mullnagoad, Pettigo, Co. Donegal. A series of information regarding individuals and cars seen on the night of the bombings was released as part of the appeal.

The two teenagers who lost their lives that night were remembered with love yesterday. When the bomb exploded, Patrick from Clara, Co Offlay were in the public phone booth on the main street calling his parents to tell them he would not be home.

Geraldine who was in Belturbet had come into town with her brother Anthony to get food, and was in a restaurant when the bomb exploded in a car parked opposite.

Speaking at the wreath laying ceremony, Cathaoirleach (Chair) of Cavan County Council, Councillor John Paul Feeley said: “We think of Geraldine and Patrick who were denied the hopes and dreams of the past 50 years, we think of their families who have carried that burden of grief and we hope that our presence today, our prayers and our thoughts are of some support and strength to them.”

Referencing the ongoing Garda appeal for information, Councillor Feeley said: “We dare to hope that the authorities north of the Border will give the type of co-operation that is needed, and that all of those who have information which could bring about justice will make that information known to An Garda Síochana.”

He added: “It is never too late for justice to be done and it is never too late for those who have remained silent for the last 50 years to do the right thing.”