11/01/2005

Missing Cookstown man confirmed dead

The Irish Government has confirmed that a body found in Thailand is that of Co Tyrone man Conor Keightley.

The 31-year-old from Cookstown was on holiday when the Indian Ocean tsunami struck on Boxing Day and has not been heard from since.

Last week, his two sisters, Michelle McCaughey and Darina Duffin, arrived in the country to search for their brother.

They have spent the last week in the Thai resort of Phuket trying to trace his last known movements and were hours from returning home when the news was confirmed.

A statement issued by the Keightley family said: "We know now that Conor was and now is in paradise.

"The family wish to thank those individuals and agencies who have assisted in the search for Conor.

"We thank the people of Ireland and beyond for their thoughts, their generosity and prayers. This has been a pillar of strength for the entire family.

"Our thoughts and prayers are with those who are missing or injured and those who have lost loved ones."

The Irish Government’s Department of Foreign Affairs has confirmed that it will make the final arrangements for the return of Mr Keightley’s body which will be flown home in a week's time.

(MB/SP)

Related Northern Ireland News Stories
Click here for the latest headlines.

21 August 2018
Over 500 Attend Farm First Aid Awareness Training
More than 500 farm family members and employees have attended First Aid Awareness training since March 2018, as part of the Farm Family Key Skills (FFKS) scheme. Up to 100 accidents which need medical attention occur each month on Northern Ireland farms.
18 November 2021
Ministers Highlight Importance Of Responsible Antimicrobial Use
Ministers have highlighted the importance of the responsible use of antimicrobials, marking the start of World Antimicrobial Awareness Week (WAAW). WAAW runs from 18-24 November this year with the overarching slogan 'Antimicrobials: Handle with CARE' and a campaign message of 'Spread Awareness, Stop Resistance'.
11 June 2019
Employment Rate Reaches Joint Record High
The employment rate in Northern Ireland has reached a joint record high, a new report has revealed. The latest Labour Force Survey (LFS) estimates for February-April show a 0.4 percentage point increase in the employment rate to 71.3%. Along with strong employment, the sector has also seen a fall in the unemployment rate which now sits at 3.1%.
17 January 2018
Snow Closes Schools Throughout NI
Over 200 schools have closed due to the heavy snow across Northern Ireland. The Department of Infrastructure confirmed conditions are extremely difficult, however gritters have worked throughout the night and are continuing to work today, 17 January.
27 March 2017
NI Water To Increase Prices For Business Customers
Northern Ireland Water has announced it is to increase its prices for around 80,000 business consumers. The firm confirmed bills will rise by an average of 1.65% for metered users from April, which is below inflation.