Search for missing backpacker called off

The search for missing Irish backpacker Ronan Lawlor has been called off in Chile, it was confirmed tonight.

The Department of Foreign Affairs informed Mr Lawlor’s family and friends of the decision by authorities in South America.

The 28-year-old Durrow Co Laois man has not been in touch with family or friends since November 18, when he entered Torres del Paine national park on the Argentina-Chile border.

Minister for Foreign Affairs Dermot Ahern expressed his sadness at today’s outcome and said his thoughts and prayers were with the family.

A statement said: “After an extensive search, no trace of Mr Lawlor has been found and the search has now been called off.

“The thoughts of the Department and Minister Ahern are with the family at this distressing time.”

A helicopter and sniffer dogs had joined the search in recent days.

Concerned friends and relatives of the missing man travelled to Argentina and were assisted by Irish consular staff in Buenos Aires.