Justice Minister David Ford is updated on the search for Kieran McAree by Superintendent Derek Scott (Centre) and Inspector Rory Hoy (right)
A STORMONT minister has paid tribute to the “amazing efforts” from ordinary people after he made an emotional visit to the search area of missing man Kieran McAree.
As the painstaking search continues for the Monaghan man, Finance Minister David Ford met with a host of teams, agencies and people who have been heavily involved in the operation since last month.
The search is now in its fourth week and involves police divers and voluntary search teams from across Ireland.
Mr Ford met with the 23-year-old’s parents Geraldine and Martin, his brother Damien and sister Aisling, who have maintained a daily vigil at the Round O and to thank to all the volunteers.
Some of the agencies involved in the search include NIFRS, Northwest Mountain Rescue, RNLI, Foyle Rescue, CRS and the PSNI.
Speaking to the Fermanagh Herald after the visit, the Alliance leader said: “It was simply a chance for my wife, Anne, and I to express our sympathy and to hear what Kieran’s parents are going though.
“It’s very sad circumstances, it’s like being at a wake. They are a very strong couple and are lovely parents.
“It is amazing to see all the effort that has went in to the search, the organisations and the individuals turning up, from ordinary people to sophisticated operations being carried out. I went to see his parents and they are feeling a sense of community support from the people turning up and doing what they can.
“They clearly appreciate it all. It would make you very proud of Fermanagh and the people throughout the north west.”
Kieran has been suffering from mental health problems and has raised some €5,500 for Aware Defeat Depression.
Police superintendent Derek Scott said: “Thank you to all the voluntary search teams and members of the public who have so tirelessly assisted in the search for Kieran. The response from the voluntary search teams has been incredible and we have been overwhelmed by the response from the community in Enniskillen and from County Monaghan since Kieran was reported missing.
“Police boats equipped with specialist equipment, divers and victim recovery dogs have searched the waterways, while those on foot have searched along the shoreline and riverbanks.
Thermal imaging equipment was used during the initial stages of the search and Sonar has been used extensively during the days since. The police helicopter has also been used as part of the search operation.
“I would like to reiterate our appeal for information in relation to Kieran’s disappearance. Kieran is described as 5’7” tall, with short curly brown hair, he was wearing a green hoodie, blue trousers and was wearing glasses.
It is believed that he drove his car, a silver coloured VW Golf along the Wellington Road turning onto the Sligo Road and parking a short distance from the Castle Bridge at around 5am.”
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