‘This is not the end’

LIVING IN HOPE?The family of Sandra Collins including her sisters Mary and Bridie, brothers Patrick and David and father Joe speaking to the media outside the Central Criminal Court after Martin Earley was acquitted of her murder. ?Pic: Keith Heneghan Phocus

‘This is not the end’


Brother says information may still come forward

Anton McNulty

The family of Sandra Collins has called for anyone with information regarding her disappearance to contact the Gardaí, saying it is never too late.
Patrick Collins, Sandra’s brother, told The Mayo News that the family were ‘devastated’ by Mr Justice Patrick McCarthy’s decision to acquit Martin Earley of his sister’s murder, but that they respected the decision.
Following the acquittal, Gardaí reassured the family that the case was still open and that they would continue to follow up any information they received. Patrick Collins said that somebody must have information on what happened to Sandra on the night of December 4, 2000, and he called on anyone with any information to come forward.
“This is not the end, it is far from the end. We will keep fighting for Sandra and let no one be under the illusion that we will give up. We will not end until we bring her home. We still believe we will bring her home and will keep fighting for her.
“Someone out there knows something, and we appeal to that person to come forward. They should not be afraid to come forward or think that because the trial is over that it is too late and they will get in trouble. The Gardaí’s door is always open and they will follow up any lead they get. It is never too late and they won’t get in trouble. We would welcome anyone to come forward with any information,” he said.
The trial at the Central Criminal Court sitting at Castlebar Courthouse was heard over 18 days. The Collins family were present throughout. Patrick admitted it was very difficult for the family.
“It was a difficult process no family should go through. I would not wish it on anyone. It was hard to sit there and listen to what came out.”
Patrick thanked the Gardaí for their investigation work for the past 14 years and for their assistance throughout the trial. He also thanked the local communities in Killala and Crossmolina and throughout Mayo for their support and prayers.
This year will mark the 14th anniversary of Sandra’s disappearance, and despite the intervening years, Patrick said they will never forget their sister.
“Sandra was a kind and caring sister who loved to look after us and make us happy. She loved her music, her friends and was the kind of person who would not say no to you if you asked for help. She was kind and gentle person who did not have a bad bone in her body. I am not saying she was a saint and did not make mistakes. She was a wonderful person and she didn’t deserve to die.”