President Connolly offers to meet Ann Travers, sister of IRA murder victim
President Catherine Connolly has officially offered to meet with Ann Travers, the sister of a Mary Travers, who was murdered by the Provisional IRA in 1984.
The President’s decision to meet with Travers comes after she was recently pictured with Mary McArdle, who was convicted for her part in the murder of the 23-year-old teacher 42 years ago.
McArdle served 14 years in prison before being released under the terms of the Good Friday Agreement.
After the picture emerged, Travers wrote to President Connolly to voice her disdain, and told RTÉ radio’s Today show that it is “very important” for those in power to “start standing beside the victims and survivors of the Troubles”.
“It lives with me every day of my life, and I think that's what people and the public need to really understand,” said Travers.
“This isn't just me, this is other friends of mine and people who have also lost loved ones through the Troubles.
“It just re-traumatises you, it brings you right back."
A spokesperson for the President’s office confirmed to the that efforts have been made to arrange a meeting.
“The Office of the President can confirm that President Connolly has offered to meet with Ann Travers,” the spokesperson said.
Additionally, in a post on social media, Travers said she hoped to hold the private meeting with President Connolly next month.
