The Daily Star Ireland
Fragments of human remains have been uncovered by the Independent Commission for the Location of Victims’ Remains (ICLVR) during a renewed investigation in Annyalla Cemetery, near Clontibret, County Monaghan. The find was made as part of the continued search for individuals known as the Disappeared—those who were abducted, killed, and buried in secret during the Northern Ireland conflict.
The latest discovery was made shortly after an earlier exhumation at the same cemetery, which focused on identifying the remains of Joe Lynskey. Lynskey, a former Cistercian monk who became a member of the IRA, was executed by his own organisation in 1972. Although the earlier dig in March recovered human remains, forensic tests confirmed they did not belong to Lynskey or any of the other Disappeared.
Following that investigation, new intelligence suggested another specific location within the cemetery warranted examination. The ICLVR has clarified that the area of interest was not part of a known family burial plot. The newly discovered remains have now been transferred for forensic testing and analysis. The Office of the State Pathologist has been informed.
Family Informed, But No Confirmation Yet
Eamonn Henry, recently appointed lead investigator for the ICLVR, has confirmed that Lynskey’s relatives have been notified of the development. However, he stressed the importance of restraint, as the remains have not been linked directly to any known case of the Disappeared. He cautioned that until a forensic match is made or ruled out, investigators must keep all possibilities open.
Henry acknowledged the emotional toll such developments have had on affected families, noting that the Lynskey family has experienced repeated moments of hope followed by disappointment. He reaffirmed the Commission’s commitment to providing continued support throughout the identification process, which may take a significant amount of time.
Broader Appeal for Information
In addition to the update on Lynskey, Henry used the opportunity to urge anyone with knowledge about the Disappeared to come forward. He highlighted that credible tips have led to action, as demonstrated by the current work at Annyalla.
This week also marks 48 years since the disappearance of British Army officer Robert Nairac, who is also among those still missing. Alongside Nairac and Lynskey, the cases of Columba McVeigh and Seamus Maguire remain unresolved.
Henry reiterated that all information provided to the ICLVR is treated with absolute confidentiality. He encouraged individuals to reach out to the Commission by phone, email, or post to assist in the ongoing mission of locating the remaining victims.
The ICLVR, established to help locate and recover the remains of those secretly buried during the Troubles, continues to rely heavily on information from members of the public, including former participants in paramilitary groups. Despite the passage of time, investigators stress that leads—no matter how old—remain essential to closing these painful chapters for the families involved.
Anyone who may have relevant information regarding the unresolved cases is urged to contact the ICLVR by calling 01 602 8655, emailing secretary@iclvr.ie, or writing to PO Box 10827, Dublin, Ireland.
