Kyran Durnin review withheld as legal barriers halt release
By ArdeePost Reporter
Review Into Missing Boy Kyran Durnin Will Not Be Published Due to Legal Complications
A review into the disappearance of missing County Louth boy Kyran Durnin will not be made public, the Government has confirmed, after the Attorney General advised that releasing the document would not be legally appropriate.
Kyran, who was reported missing from his home in 2024, is believed by Gardaí to have last been seen alive in 2022, when he was just six years old. The significant gap between when he was last sighted and when his disappearance was officially reported has raised serious questions about communication, safeguarding procedures, and inter-agency information sharing.
Legal Concerns Prevent Publication
Children’s Minister Norma Foley said her full intention had been to publish the review conducted by the National Review Panel (NRP). However, she confirmed this week that the Attorney General advised against publication due to complex legal issues surrounding the case.
These complications are believed to relate to privacy concerns, ongoing Garda investigations, and the sensitive nature of the information contained in the report.
Despite the full document being withheld, the Minister said the most important elements — the NRP’s key recommendations — are being released publicly.
Key Recommendations Released
The recommendations highlight several areas where urgent improvements are needed, including:
- A review of GDPR processes, particularly relating to information sharing between child-protection agencies.
- Revised protocols between Tusla and An Garda Síochána, aimed at ensuring more robust communication in cases involving children.
- Strengthened internal systems to prevent delays in reporting, assessing, or responding to concerns involving vulnerable young people.
“These recommendations can and will be acted upon,” Minister Foley said, adding that child protection services must ensure better cooperation and clearer lines of responsibility.
Case Remains an Open Garda Investigation
Gardaí have reiterated that the disappearance of Kyran Durnin remains an active and open investigation. Officers continue to examine Kyran’s last confirmed sightings in 2022, along with the circumstances that led to the two-year delay in him being reported missing.
Investigators are continuing to appeal to the public for any information that may help piece together Kyran’s movements, his living situation, or his contacts during that period.
Calls for Transparency and Accountability
The decision not to publish the full review has sparked concern among advocacy groups and members of the public who fear crucial lessons could be lost without full transparency. However, the Government insists that releasing the document could compromise both Kyran’s privacy and the ongoing Garda investigation.
Minister Foley stressed that although the review cannot be made public, the Government is committed to ensuring that the failures identified in the case are not repeated.
“This is a deeply distressing case,” she said. “Our thoughts remain with Kyran, and we remain steadfast in our commitment to support the ongoing investigation.”
A Community Still Searching for Answers
As Gardaí continue their work, the community in County Louth remains deeply affected by the mystery surrounding Kyran Durnin’s disappearance. The hope remains that the open investigation — bolstered by the NRP’s recommendations — will eventually bring clarity, accountability, and answers.
Children’s Minister Norma Foley said her full intention had been to publish the review conducted by the National Review Panel (NRP).
“Kyran’s case remains an open investigation — transparency is vital, but legal boundaries cannot be crossed.”