Gardaí: DNA advances may solve Philip Cairns case

Gardaí say they hope advances in technology may help solve the on-going mystery surrounding the disappearance of Philip Cairns in 1986.

The 13-year-old went missing 20 years ago today after he left his home on the Ballyroan Road in south Dublin. He had been heading back to school after lunch, but never reached his destination.

Gardaí say they believe his schoolbag holds part of the key to his disappearance.

They are hoping improvements in DNA technology may eventually help them to discover who touched his schoolbag, which was found in a laneway near his home six days after he disappeared.