A COUSIN of Co Donegal schoolgirl Mary Boyle has called for the PSNI to be called in to investigate her disappearance almost 40 years ago.
The six-year-old, who was was last seen near Ballyshannon in March 1977, is believed to have been murdered and her body possibly buried close to the Fermanagh border.
A Garda cold case unit is now reviewing the case and a search of land in Co Donegal took place last week without success.
There has been renewed interest following claims about Mary’s disappearance made in an online documentary by investigative journalist Gemma O’Doherty, which has been viewed more than 100,000 times.
It suggests that political pressure was put on gardaí in not to question relatives of a man regarded as the chief suspect.
It has also emerged that Mary’s twin sister Ann Doherty is to meet PSNI detectives over claims that someone in Co Fermanagh may have information that could help the investigation.
A 'March for Mary' in Ballyshannon on Saturday was attended by more than 600 people.
Speaking afterwards, Letterkenny-based Joe Craig - a cousin of Mary - claimed the public had lost confidence in gardaí to solve the case.
“I think it would be much better for everybody if an outside force like the PSNI was called in to investigate this case," he said.
“That is no disrespect to the thousands of gardaí who do their duty very well but they have had almost 40 years to solve this case and we are no nearer a solution.
“There are just too many unanswered questions about this investigation and it needs fresh eyes.
“And if we can’t get the PSNI to do it then we should get a British or US force to investigate it.
“I will fight for justice to my last breath for my cousin”.
March organiser Naomi Brady told supporters that closure is needed for the Boyle family.
“I know that many of you in the crowd here actually went out to look for Mary and we are all here today for Mary Boyle," she said.
“We need this child to be brought home to rest and we need justice for Mary.
“The people of Ballyshannon are a very private people but they are there when you need them and it is quite obvious here today”.
She added: “Mary Boyle is the picture of every other child that is missing in this country.
“Hopefully Mary Boyle’s story will remind those at the higher power that know that they need to do their jobs and to do them well to bring peace to the families of all the missing."
A message was also read from Margo O’Donnell, a distant relation of the schoolgirl, who said she was staying away because it “was a special day for the public to show their support".
“Everyone of you who are here today know the heartbreak and legacy of Mary Boyle and with your help and support we will hopefully find her body and lay her to rest.”
A message was also read out on behalf Mary’s twin sister Ann, who was present.
“We will continue your quest to fight for justice for Mary Boyle”.
The march ended at Ballyshannon Garda station where a five- minute vigil was held and balloons were released by children.
