PRESS RELEASE

Derry City Council discuss Cara Gunn Case

Friday 12 December 03

Today, Derry City Council informally discussed the Cara Gunn case. Mayor Cllr Shaun Gallagher speaking at the meeting said that he had received many calls from the public to ask how they can provide help and support to Cara and her family at this time.

“Since hearing the news of the decision reached by the court in Florida I have received many calls from the general public to see how they can pledge their support to Cara and her family. The Foyle Branch of Women’s Aid has indicated that the primary need at the moment is to help raise funds towards the Appeal Hearing. A special account has been set-up with the Northern Bank in Shipquay Place where donations can be made. In addition, Council are planning to open a book for the public to register their support for Cara Gunn.

“I feel it is important that Cara and her family know our thoughts are with them at this time and that the public are there to offer their support and help”.

Members of Derry City Council also reflected on the issues raised by the case such as the rights for the mother and children, citizenship, the profile of the city during the case and the need to review the Hague Convention. Representatives from Foyle Womens Aid also addressed the Committee outlining the issues for the case including the need to petition a positive emigration ruling for Cara. They highlighted the need for individuals to lend support to a working party they are establishing for the case and agreed to forward details of other similar cases in Northern Ireland to Council. Mayor Cllr Gallagher continued,

“Members will consider all the information received today along with the issues which it raises in terms of rights of the mother and child, citizenship, the Hague Convention and how the city was portrayed as a location with a poor quality of life. The Foyle Womens Aid need public support in relation to this case and I would urge anyone who can help to contact them. I have pledged my support to working with Foyle Women’s Aid and, if required, I am prepared to support their efforts in the United States”.

Foyle Women’s Aid has established a Cara Gunn Campaign account at the Ulster Bank in Shipquay Place. It is also expected that a public support register will be open from early next week at the Guildhall. Foyle Women’s Aid can be contacted by telephone on 028 7128 0060 or by email maire@foylewomensaid.org.

Ends

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