Special memorial to be held for victims of violent murder

THE father of murdered teenager Sheola Keaney will attend a graveside ceremony in Cobh in three weeks to mark the first anniversary of her death.

Peter Keaney last night invited anyone who has been affected by the murder of a loved one to join him at the ceremony on July 14.

Representatives of Advic, Women’s Aid Ireland, and the Midleton-based suicide support group, Let’s Get Together Foundation, will also attend.

Mr Keaney said they will hold 130 lilies — Sheola’s favourite flower — to remember each female murder victim over the past decade.

But he also wants to remember the male victims of homicide.

“Our thoughts and prayers will go to those throughout the years who have been affected by murder,” he said.

The ceremony will take place exactly one year since his 19-year-old daughter was killed.

Her body was found beaten and strangled in a laneway in Cobh two days after she disappeared.

Her ex-boyfriend, Thomas Kennedy, aged 21, of 84 Russell Heights, Cobh, was subsequently convicted of her murder. Mr Justice Paul Carney imposed a mandatory life sentence.

Mr Keaney said he will use the ceremony to reiterate his calls for more State support for groups supporting those who have been affected by violent death.

“I have written to several government departments seeking better support for the families and friends of murder victims,” he said.

But he is also expected to call for tougher sentencing for those convicted of murder so that “life means life”.

“Maybe if life in prison meant life in prison, people would actually think twice before doing something stupid,” he said.

The memorial in Cobh starts at 5pm and will be open to the public.