SARA NELIGAN’S family expressed their relief at yesterday’s guilty plea and sentencing. They also asked the media to respect their desire for privacy.
Family friend and Dublin city sheriff Brendan Walsh read a statement on behalf of the family after they left the Four Courts.
Sara’s father, retired heart surgeon Maurice Neligan, was flanked by sons Maurice, John and David, and daughters Lucy and Lisa at the court hearing.
His wife, Patricia, remained at home with their daughter Kate, who is in the late stages of pregnancy.
“On behalf of Maurice and Patricia Neligan and their family I’ve been asked to say that they are all very relieved that this process is now completed,” Mr Walsh said.
“Whilst nothing can bring back their beloved Sara, they can at least now get on with their lives and move on.
“They want me particularly to thank all those in the process, particularly the gardaí and the prosecuting authority, for their careful and sympathetic handling of the case.
“They will not be commenting further or giving interviews, and would ask particularly that their privacy be respected,” said Mr Walsh.
