Family Demands Justice for Kilkenny Man Killed in 1975 Bombing

UPDATE: The family of John Hayes, a Kilkenny man killed in a bomb attack nearly 50 years ago, is urgently calling for a renewed investigation into the tragic incident. Hayes was working as a baggage handler at Dublin Airport when a bomb exploded in November 1975, claiming his life and injuring eight others.

This appeal for justice comes as Operation Denton, an independent UK police inquiry, prepares to release its long-awaited report regarding the activities of the notorious Glenanne Gang. This group, linked to the UVF, carried out violent attacks across Armagh and Mid-Ulster during the 1970s and is believed to have involved serving members of law enforcement and military.

Brendan Hayes, John’s son, expressed deep frustration over the lack of effective investigation into his father’s murder. “It would be nice to think that Operation Denton can provide some answers which can lead to some form of justice, but I am not very hopeful,” he stated. His sentiments echo a growing dissatisfaction among victims’ families seeking accountability.

The impending report from Operation Denton has stirred emotions, particularly as it may disclose the names of some suspects involved in the attack. “So far, it has proven to be a real disappointment,” Brendan lamented. “They’ve released the names of some of the suspects but have not provided reasoning for the others left undisclosed.”

Brendan recounted the profound impact his father’s death had on their family, particularly on his mother, Monica Hayes. “It is only within the last couple of years that I have felt strong enough to talk about what happened to my father,” he revealed. The emotional toll of unresolved grief has been heavy, leading to feelings of fear, anger, and sadness.

In a bid for justice, Brendan has engaged with Sinn Féin TD Matt Carthy, who has posed questions to the Irish Justice Minister and the Garda Commissioner regarding the status of the investigation. Efforts are underway to meet with the Garda Commissioner to seek clarity on what actions, if any, will be taken moving forward.

Brendan described his father as a proud Kilkenny man who cherished his family and community. “My Dad was just like an ordinary guy doing his job,” he shared, noting that John was covering a shift that day due to staffing shortages. The family is now advocating for a memorial plaque at Dublin Airport, hoping for support from the Dublin Airport Authority. “It doesn’t have to be that big,” Brendan stated. “Just something that can be a permanent reminder there.”

A memorial service is set for November 28 at Dublin Airport Church, emphasizing the family’s commitment to keeping John’s memory alive while prioritizing their quest for justice. As the investigation unfolds, the Hayes family continues to seek answers that have eluded them for decades.

Stay tuned for further updates as this story develops and the report from Operation Denton is made public.