MEP calls for comprehensive probe in Rooskey farmer's death

On Sunday, 12 January 2025, a large crowd gathered at the unveiling of the memorial plaque at Liam Farrell’s home in Rooskey as community members united in their call for justice.

MEP Ciaran Mullooly, who was in attendance, called for a full, independent Garda investigation into the death of Liam Farrell, a Rooskey farmer from County Leitrim who died under suspicious circumstances in January 2020. The renewed demand for transparency comes as the family commemorated the fifth anniversary of Liam Farrell’s death during an emotional memorial plaque unveiling at their Rooskey home.

Speaking at the ceremony, MEP Mullooly detailed his discussion with the Farrell family, who expressed deep frustration over the perceived lack of progress in the case. “I met with the Farrell family today at this moving ceremony and listened to their heartfelt appeal for answers,” he stated. “They have made it very clear to me that there is still a total lack of clarity about the circumstances surrounding their father’s death. While I understand a Garda review of the investigation is underway, I do not believe such an internal inquiry will bring any meaningful closure to the family. Their legitimate concerns must be addressed.”

The memorial plaque, unveiled in honour of Liam Farrell, features a photograph of him alongside his dog, Marley, and includes a message urging anyone with information to contact Garda authorities via a confidential number—1800 666 111. The event, attended by family members, friends, and neighbours, was a poignant call for justice and public participation in uncovering the truth behind his death.

MEP Mullooly criticized the initial Garda investigation, raising several key questions. He wondered why no nationwide appeal for information had been made at the time and why the case was not featured on RTE’s Crimecall programme to stimulate public awareness. Additionally, he questioned how the blunt force injuries identified during the inquest could be reconciled with the conclusions drawn by the original investigation.

“This afternoon the family of Mr Farrell invited me to personally examine the photographic evidence taken after the death and at the scene of the incident - my only conclusion after this distressing experience is that the Garda Commissioner must now appoint a senior officer to carry out an entirely new inquiry into the death of Mr Farrell, and the Minister for Justice must ensure this happens immediately,” Mullooly declared.

Reaffirming his support, MEP Mullooly emphasized the urgency of a fresh investigation. “I fully support the family’s call for a completely new investigation into this case. The possibility that this was a serious crime scene should have been treated with the utmost urgency from day one,” he added.

Peter Farrell, one of Liam’s sons, reiterated the family’s determination for justice. “We just want answers and justice for our father. If anyone has any information, no matter how small, we urge them to come forward,” he said.

After the ceremony, Peter shared that he had recently obtained possession of photographs taken after his father’s death, which provided clear evidence: "These photographs are evidence that was overlooked initially and show clearly that the rope burns on our father's neck and the bruising on his feet indicates that he was dragged."

As concerns intensify and calls for decisive action grow louder, MEP Mullooly has pledged his ongoing commitment to supporting the Farrell family. The demand for accountability underscores a broader call for thorough investigations and justice for those affected by unresolved cases.

The community and the family now await further developments, hoping that a new, independent inquiry will finally shed light on the troubling circumstances surrounding Liam Farrell's death.