Overview

• Forensic teams are searching sealed-off open ground in Donabate after a technical examination at The Gallery Apartments and the establishment of an incident room at Swords Garda Station.
• The boy, last seen around age three and a half and believed to be seven now, was never reported missing and investigators say they have found no evidence he is alive.
• Detectives are keeping an open mind on whether any death was natural, accidental or criminal, and are seeking remains to help determine what occurred.
• Gardaí have spoken with the parents and wider relatives, including some abroad, and have made no arrests while appealing for information to Swords Garda Station or the confidential line.
• Minister for Children Norma Foley expressed deep concern and the Children’s Rapporteur called the case horrifying and urged transparent scrutiny of child-protection systems, with Gardaí stressing no link to other investigations.