"After all these years, Baby John deserves the truth."
A house-to-house investigation into the death of a newborn baby boy in 1984, Baby John, got underway on Monday on Valentia Island, County Kerry.
Approximately 20 members of An Garda Síochána – both uniform and detectives – are undertaking the canvas.
Baby John was found with multiple injuries on White Strand Beach in Caherciveen, Co Kerry, on April 14, 1984.
Valentia Island lies just off the mainland from White Strand Beach. The local enquiry is expected to last for the next couple of days. There is no specific line of enquiry in Valentia other than proximity to White Strand. Other areas in the future may be targeted for specific canvas.
“The investigation into Baby John is continuing," Superintendent Flor Murphy, Killarney, who is leading the investigation, said today.
"Significant work has been undertaken since January by the local investigation team supported by the Serious Crime Review Team. Over 9,000 investigative hours have been expended on the investigation and 225 separate lines of enquiry are being actively progressed. Selective DNA sampling is ongoing and this is a key focus of the investigation.
“The investigation is still appealing for information from the public. We still believe that members of the community in South Kerry have information about the identity of the mother of Baby John. Baby John lived for five days so someone somewhere knows about his very short life.
“Someone is Baby John’s mother. Someone is Baby John’s father. Someone knew his mother or father. People have carried a lot of pain and hurt over the last 30 years. This is an opportunity for them to help bring closure to this terrible event and ensure that Baby John receives justice.
“Even the smallest piece of information could be of major assistance to us. Anyone who comes forward will be treated with sensitivity and in the strictest of confidence. We have specially trained personnel available who are trained in dealing with difficult and sensitive issues in a compassionate and professional manner.
“After all these years, Baby John deserves the truth. Please help us find that truth for Baby John by contacting us here in Caherciveen on 066 9473610."
