Gardai launch search near border over Paul Quinn's 2007 IRA murder

Paul Quinn, from Cullyhanna, was 21 when he was beaten to death near Castleblayney, Co Monaghan.

His family blame members of the IRA but Sinn Fein has always denied republican involvement in Mr Quinn’s death.

Gardai said they are searching ground close to Castleblayney in connection with the killing.

A garda spokesman said: “Gardai from Monaghan have commenced a search operation on lands near Castleblayney as part of the ongoing investigation into the murder of Paul Quinn on October 20 2007.”

Mr Quinn was found beaten at farm buildings in Tullycoora, near Castleblaney, County Monaghan, in October 2007.

He died in hospital several weeks later.

His family said he had been involved in a dispute with individual IRA members.

Stephen and Breege Quinn, the dead man’s parents, from Cullyhanna, were notified of the Garda operation.

“We are delighted and it just goes to show that the guards are not giving up and are still at it,” Mr Quinn said.

“It’s a long time but it gives us a lift that they are still working and going on ahead with the investigation.

“It gives you a bit of hope. We are very grateful.”