Family of Liam Farrell to meet Garda Commissioner over death investigation

The family of Leitrim pensioner Liam Farrell is set to meet with Garda Commissioner Drew Harris on July 31 in the Phoenix Park, Dublin, in a bid to finally receive answers about the investigation into his death. This meeting, which will be one of Harris' final official duties before stepping down, follows the family's ongoing campaign to have the case reopened.

Liam Farrell, 87, was found dead at the back of his home near Rooskey on January 11, 2020. His body was discovered severely bruised and bloodied, with signs suggesting a violent attack. The post-mortem examination concluded that Farrell died from a heart attack caused by severe coronary disease, but the circumstances surrounding his death raised suspicions. The inquest returned an open verdict, leaving the family with unanswered questions about whether the case had been treated as a potential crime.

In response to the family's concerns, Garda Commissioner Harris ordered a peer review of the initial investigation. The review resulted in 23 recommendations, though no new inquiry was launched. Among the suggestions was the controversial proposal to consult an expert on Labrador behavior to determine if Farrell’s dog, Marley, had removed his shoes and socks.

The Farrell family was left “stunned” by this suggestion and expressed frustration with the lack of progress. They now hope that Commissioner Harris will provide the much-needed answers during their upcoming meeting.

The Farrells said they plan to press Harris on the progress made since the peer review, particularly seeking clarification on the investigation’s handling. "We don’t want to get out ahead of the meeting but we are not going to let our father's case rest until it has been properly investigated," said Peter Farrell, one of Liam's sons. The family is determined to ensure that Liam Farrell’s death is fully examined and that the original investigation is thoroughly scrutinized.

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