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Irish Times
24-06-2025
- Irish Times
The stories of the Omagh bomb victims: from unborn twins to community stalwarts
James Barker (12) James Barker. Photograph: Pacemaker James was an 'outgoing, caring and a very fun-loving child' who 'always had a positive and happy demeanour' and was looking forward to starting a new school that September, his father said. He loved sport, including golf, caddying for his father, and playing football with Spanish exchange student, Fernando Blasco Baselga. James said he 'wanted to become a lawyer when he grew up so he could take over my firm and give me a rest'. Fernando Blasco Baselga (12) Fernando had lots of friends – at school, in his neighbourhood in Madrid, Spain, and in his mountaineering group. One of seven siblings, his family described him as a 'good, happy and generous child' who got along well with everyone. READ MORE He liked handball and played on his school team, and loved to eat, especially his favourite rice salad. When asked in his catechism group what was important to him, he replied: 'To reach heaven.' Geraldine Breslin (43) Geraldine Breslin. Photograph: PA/PA Wire Geraldine was 'naturally a smiley, happy, bubbly person', her son said, with 'a laugh that made you want to be in her presence'. She had a close bond with her only son, who she brought up as a single parent. She worked in the ladies' department in Watterson's in Omagh town centre, a job she loved. She married her husband in 1995, and they were 'totally in love with each other, devoted to one another'. Debra-Ann Cartwright (20) Debra-Ann Cartwright. Photograph: Family Handout/PA Wire Debra-Ann was from Birchwood in Omagh and a former pupil of Omagh High School, where she was involved in cross-community work and visited Denmark on a student exchange. She was working in a beauty salon in the town centre and was awaiting her A-level results to see if she had achieved the grades to study textile design in Manchester. Her results, which arrived on the day of her funeral, confirmed she had been successful. Gareth Conway (18) Gareth Conway. Photograph: PA Gareth was 'a diligent, conscientious and humble young man' who left a 'legacy of love, hard work and quiet strength', his sister said. He loved dogs and woodwork – he built a replica of the village chapel out of clothes pegs – and played soccer and Gaelic football. He had recently been accepted to study engineering at university, and was 'very happy and looking forward to the next stage in his life'. Breda Devine (20 months) Breda Devine. Photograph: Pacemaker Breda was born three months prematurely but 'clung to life' and grew into a healthy little girl. One of four siblings from Donemana, Co Tyrone, she was due to be a flower girl at her uncle's wedding. She was 'a special child who struggled bravely against all the odds', the parish priest told mourners at her funeral. Oran Doherty (8) Oran Doherty. Photograph: Family handout/PA Wire Oran, the fifth child of seven from Buncrana, Co Donegal, was 'a great, funny wee boy' who was 'full of life', his mother said. 'He was fun-loving, happy-go-lucky and he loved football. 'He also loved to go fishing with his daddy, his older brother and his friends. 'He had written one time that when he grew up he wanted to play for Celtic [FC] or be a shopkeeper.' Aiden Gallagher (21) Aiden Gallagher. Photograph: Pacemaker Aiden was, from a young age, interested in 'anything mechanical … he used to take apart his toys and rebuild them', his father said. He had a strong work ethic, becoming involved in the family repair business in Omagh, and was at college studying car body repair. His sharp wit and sense of humour meant he made friends easily; he hated bullying or inequality, and often stood up for the most vulnerable. Esther Gibson (36) Esther Gibson omagh victim Esther was engaged to be married and was 'looking forward to a future filled with hope and happiness'. The eldest of five sisters, she grew up on the family farm in Beragh, Co Tyrone, where she learned a 'strong sense of duty and compassion that would characterise her life', her family said. A Sunday school teacher, she belonged to Sixmilecross Free Presbyterian Church and found 'joy and purpose' in her Christian faith. Mary Grimes (66) Mary Grimes. Photograph: Family handout/PA Wire Mary grew up on a farm in Co Cork before training to be a nurse and then a midwife. A mother of 11, she had 'a strong Catholic faith, a strong work ethic and a deep sense of family values', her family said. 'No one was ever turned away from her door in Deroar [in Beragh, Co Tyrone], and no one left without a cup of tea or some of her beautiful currant bread or apple tart.' Olive Hawkes (60) Olive was 'very much a hands-on farmer's wife' who 'also loved her style, and therefore shopping trips to Omagh were a regular occurrence', her daughter said. The treasurer of Mayne Methodist Church for more than 25 years, she was also an active member of the Women's Institute, a great baker and loved gardening. 'There was always laughter in our home,' her daughter said. 'She was the glue that made our family so close.' Julia Hughes (21) Julia Hughes. Photograph: Omagh Bombing Inquiry/Family handout/PA Wire Julia was her twin brother Justin's 'biggest ally in life, and I was hers'. Born four minutes apart, they spent their schooling 'exchanging homework … I did one subject, Julia the other.' 'Julia was small, but a fire burned in her heart. She was feisty when she needed to be,' especially when playing goalie for her school hockey team. She was studying accountancy at Dundee; each year, the university awards a prize in her memory. Brenda Logue (17) Brenda was a 'sweet-natured girl' who was 'her own person', her family said, so much so that she successfully persuaded her school to allow girls to wear trousers as part of their uniform. She was a leader in her local youth club and hoped to become a PE teacher. Brenda was a talented Gaelic footballer who played for Tyrone at senior level, and a number of trophies are still awarded in her memory. Jolene Marlow (17) Jolene Marlow. Photograph: Omagh Bombing Inquiry/PA Wire Jolene was 'a special child' from the moment she was born, her mother said, and was looking forward to a bright future. Academically successful and a keen Gaelic footballer and camogie player, she represented both her school and her parish, helping St Macartan's to win their first ever county final. 'With her desire to become a sports physiotherapist, she had a zest for life and to do well.' Ann McCombe (48) Ann McCombe. Photograph: Pacemaker Ann and her husband Stanley celebrated their 25th wedding anniversary in 1998. 'Ann was a wonderful and very caring person and I suppose that is why I fell in love with her,' he said. She worked in Watterson's clothes shop in the centre of Omagh and was 'a very good Christian and loved her church'. 'She was the kindest-hearted person that I have ever known, and she cared for everybody.' Brian McCrory (54) Brian was his family's 'gentle giant'. He worked in the family business, driving his beloved crane, nicknamed 'Crafty Catherine', and 'loved taking photographs', so much so that he became the designated photographer at family events. Described as hard-working, with a strong faith, and dedicated to his family, he had 'a beautiful, warm, open smile that made you feel comfortable and safe', his daughter said. Samantha McFarland (17) Samantha McFarland. Photograph: Pacemaker Samantha was the youngest of three children from Hospital Road, Omagh, and was studying for her A-levels at Strabane College. She was learning to drive, loved music and books and her pet pony. She enjoyed geography and was curious about the world. She volunteered as a shop assistant in Oxfam in Omagh on Saturdays along with her best friend Lorraine Wilson and had 'a genuine kindness that people were drawn to', her family said. Sean McGrath (61) Sean McGrath. Photograph: Family handout/PA Wire Sean was 'considerate, gentle, kind to a fault and completely supportive', his daughter said. He treasured his family, and the only thing that made him cross was injustice. He grew up above the family grocer's shop on Market Street in Omagh, and as a boy loved going to see Westerns in the nearby cinema. He loved making deals, and even convincing Harrods to sell a selection of traditional Irish breads made in his bakery business. Shaun McLaughlin (12) Shaun McLaughlin. Photograph: Family handout/PA Wire Shaun weighed only 5½lb when he was born and almost did not survive, but made a full recovery and grew into a strong and healthy boy. He 'liked playing football with his friends and cycling and doing things that young boys do', his mother said, and played football for his local club. 'Shaun was a lively, lovely boy, he was always happy and content, he always found something to smile about.' Alan Radford (16) Alan Radford. Photograph: PA Wire Alan was 'a ray of sunshine' with 'the purest heart, heart of gold' and was 'so loving, so compassionate' with everybody, his sister said. He helped his mother with the grocery shopping in Omagh every week, took her to see the film Titanic, and even helped his neighbours cut their lawns despite an allergy to grass. His GCSE results arrived days after his death and he had been due to go to catering college. Rocio Abad Ramos (23) Rocio Abad Ramos. Photograph: Family handout/Fox Law Omagh/PA Wire Rocio was an extrovert who was always laughing and smiling, and was 'felt as somebody special' by her family. One of three sisters from Madrid, Spain, she excelled at sport – at 18, she was the Spanish long-jump champion – and in her studies; she won a scholarship to university and wanted to become a teacher. She had visited Buncrana, Co Donegal, on five consecutive summers to learn English. She loved Ireland and its culture. Elizabeth (Libby) Rush (57) Libby Rush. Photograph: Pacemaker Libby had a business on Market Street in Omagh which was first a coffee shop, then sold furniture and gifts, including cushions and soft furnishings she made herself. Compassionate and respectful, she was well known as a 'good listener', her daughter said. She and her husband Laurence met at a dance when they were 14. 'Private and humble, Libby was, and still is, the moral compass we set our own lives by.' Veda Short (56) Veda Short. Photograph: Pacemaker Veda 'loved and adored' her four children and eight grandchildren, and visiting 'Nanny's house' was a ritual every Sunday. She was active in her church and was a member of the Women's Institute, and she and her husband loved playing bowls in the church hall. A manager at Watterson's clothes shop on Market Street in Omagh, she took her lunch late every day so her staff could have theirs first. Philomena (Mena) Skelton (39) Philomena (Mena) Skelton. Photograph: Pacemaker Mena's life was dedicated to two things: knitting and family, her husband said. She loved Catherine Cookson books, and could knit at the same time without dropping a stitch; she knitted Aran jumpers for Magee's in Donegal town, which were subsequently sold to America. The year before the bombing, the mother of three daughters and a son began the family tradition of inviting a child from Romania to stay with them each summer. Bryan White (27) Bryan was 'the type of person, no matter of his own personal views and values, he never judged anyone', his sister said. He had a job in Strabane that involved working with people with disabilities, and 'from this job he really learned to see the strengths in people rather than their weaknesses'. 'He had just been promoted and was due to start a new job in Omagh the week of the bomb.' Fred White (65) Fred was 'somebody who always had time for people, never mind how busy he was, and he was usually very busy', his daughter said. He worked in the accounts department of the Western Education Board, but retired in 1989 following a brain haemorrhage, and spent his time working in the house and garden. He enjoyed gardening and woodwork – and in various community organisations. 'Fred was my rock and I loved him dearly,' his wife said. Lorraine Wilson (15) Lorraine Wilson. Photograph: Pacemaker Lorraine was 'an easy-going person who genuinely loved life, and she always put other people first', her family said. She loved cooking, even making the family dinner after school, and while she was 'a real home bird', she also 'always wanted to travel, and talked about being an air stewardess or chef and travelling the world'. 'She was always thinking of what she wanted to do and what she hoped to achieve in life.' Avril Monaghan (30) Avril Monaghan. Photograph: Pacemaker Avril was the 'proud mother' of four children, with two more on the way. At their home in Augher, Co Tyrone, she created a 'warm and nurturing environment' for her growing family, as well as working as an accounts clerk at a business in Omagh. She 'approached life with a can-do attitude', her daughter said. 'No matter what the challenge, she faced it, and was never one to dwell on the negatives.' Maura Monaghan (20 months) Maura had 'a joyful nature' and 'charmed everyone with her lively energy, always clapping her hands and flashing a smile', her sister said. 'Her bubbly personality and unmistakable head of curly hair made her stand out … and she lit up every room she entered', so it was no surprise when she took first prize in a Bonny Baby competition. She was 'a source of light and joy to our family and everyone around her'. Eimear and Evelyn Monaghan Avril Monaghan's unborn babies were due in October 1998. A picture of the twins taken during an ultrasound scan was shown to the Omagh Bombing Inquiry, and their sister said: 'They would be named Eimear and Evelyn, two little girls who our family were extremely excited to meet. The pictures of the scan are the reminder of the many futures that never became a reality following the bomb on August 15th, 1998.' [ The Irish Times view on the Omagh inquiry: harrowing stories that must not be forgotten Opens in new window ]
Globe and Mail
05-06-2025
- Business
- Globe and Mail
Burghley Capital Reports Strong Growth in Boeing 737 MAX Manufacturing
Strategic production increases reflect Boeing's confident recovery outlook and renewed global aviation demand. Burghley Capital highlights Boeing's decisive move to increase the production rate of its flagship 737 MAX aircraft from 38 to 42 planes per month by mid-2025. This expansion aligns closely with investor expectations, reflected immediately by a 3.14% surge in Boeing's share price to USD 207.86 following the announcement. Boeing's ambitious production plans follow significant challenges earlier this year, including a first-quarter cash burn of approximately USD 2.3 billion. However, the company remains confident in its forecast to transition to cash-positive operations by the second half of 2025. 'The production increase is essential,' emphasises James Barker, Director of Private Equity at Burghley Capital, 'as it strategically positions Boeing to monetise its extensive backlog of orders, turning a significant commercial commitment into tangible financial gains.' Indeed, Boeing's backlog remains substantial, comprising nearly 1,200 orders for the MAX 10 and 332 for the MAX 7, collectively valued within a commercial backlog surpassing USD 438.94 billion. Crucially, Boeing's resumed deliveries to the Chinese market in June represent a pivotal development, significantly enhancing Boeing's global market presence and fortifying international sales capabilities. Barker highlights that the renewed deliveries to China offer compelling evidence of Boeing's improving operational outlook. 'China's re-entry as a customer greatly underpins the sustainability of Boeing's higher production targets. This development aligns perfectly with our strategic view on aerospace investments, particularly in the Asia-Pacific region, which forecasts demand for approximately 17,580 new aircraft by 2042.' In response to stringent Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) safety regulations, Boeing has adopted innovative manufacturing practices, such as assembly line pulsing, to validate readiness for escalated production rates without breaching regulatory restrictions. Early indications of this approach are reportedly positive, with Boeing achieving a notable 30% reduction in production defects year-to-date. Regulatory compliance remains central, however. The FAA continues to enforce strict oversight, currently capping Boeing's monthly 737 MAX production at 38 aircraft pending verification of consistent manufacturing quality improvements. Boeing's leadership has underscored that achieving stability at the present rate is crucial to obtaining approval for further increases, forecasting monthly output potentially reaching 47 aircraft by year-end. Looking ahead, Boeing also plans to raise the monthly output of its wide-bodied 787 aircraft from five to seven units, eventually targeting a production rate of ten per month. Barker notes, 'These structured increments offer investors clear visibility into Boeing's broader financial recovery and market stabilisation strategy.' Global travel recovery is further strengthening Boeing's market position, with global passenger traffic now exceeding pre-pandemic levels by 3.2%. Barker observes, 'The increasing global demand, particularly within the narrow-body market segment, positions the 737 MAX family as a critical driver of Boeing's future profitability.' Market optimism is mirrored in Boeing's share price performance, demonstrating a significant recovery of 62% since its lows in early April 2025 and an 18% appreciation year-to-date. This resurgence underscores burgeoning investor confidence amid operational enhancements and increased production clarity. Burghley Capital underscores Boeing's robust long-term value proposition in the aerospace sector, with Barker affirming that 'Boeing's commitment to increased production and stringent quality adherence provides a strong foundation for sustainable investment returns, especially in a recovering global aviation market.' About Burghley Capital Established in 2017, Burghley Capital Pte. Ltd. (UEN: 201731389D) is a distinguished global investment management firm headquartered in Singapore, known for its expertise in long-only asset management strategies. The firm delivers strategic advantages through precise analytical insights, bespoke investment solutions, and dedicated financial advisory services. Committed to disciplined investment practices, Burghley Capital consistently aims to generate superior returns and financial resilience for its global clientele, encompassing institutional investors and private clients. For further insights, please visit Disclaimer: This press release may contain forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements describe future expectations, plans, results, or strategies (including product offerings, regulatory plans and business plans) and may change without notice. You are cautioned that such statements are subject to a multitude of risks and uncertainties that could cause future circumstances, events, or results to differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking statements, including the risks that actual results may differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking statements.
Yahoo
26-05-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Burghley Capital: Singapore Tech Spending Set for Growth
SINGAPORE, SG / / May 26, 2025 / Singapore-based asset management firm Burghley Capital have identified strong resilience in Singapore's technology spending over the past 12 months, with projections indicating it will reach USD $19 billion (SGD $25.5 billion) by the end of 2025. Despite economic uncertainties and rising trade tensions in the region, the city-state continues to distinguish itself as a leading destination for digital investments within Asia Pacific, driven largely by substantial investments in artificial intelligence (AI) and digital infrastructure. AI investment remains a key growth driver, supported by the Singapore government's National Artificial Intelligence Strategy. Approximately USD $134 million (SGD $180 million) has been dedicated to AI research and development, resulting in AI integration in over half of Singaporean businesses, significantly surpassing the global average of 35%. Prominent sectors embracing AI include financial services (68%), healthcare (56%), and manufacturing (47%). James Barker, Director of Private Equity at Burghley Capital, identifies structured equity investments as essential tools for managing market volatility. These investment structures offer "flexible capital solutions that substantially reduce risk while enabling sustained growth," typically achieving returns in the mid-teens on an IRR basis. Barker further points out that structured equity allows companies to "maintain valuations more effectively during market shifts, greatly reducing dilution compared to conventional equity financing." Cloud computing and cybersecurity services are experiencing rapid demand growth, with annual increases of 12.5% and 15.2%, respectively, in the current fiscal period. In 2025, Singapore's cloud services market is projected to reach approximately USD $2.8 billion (SGD $3.8 billion), boosted by recent expansions in data centre capacity. Strong economic fundamentals continue to underpin Singapore's attractiveness. These include a notably low banking sector non-performing loan ratio of 1.3%, substantial international reserves, and record foreign direct investment levels at 31.8% of GDP in the preceding fiscal year. Barker emphasises that Burghley Capital integrates AI extensively into investment decision-making. The firm's "data-driven methods ensure early identification of strategic opportunities," positioning clients effectively within Singapore's evolving technology ecosystem. Singapore's focused investment strategies and significant infrastructure development reinforce its appeal to investors. Burghley Capital aligns client portfolios with critical growth sectors, including technology, healthcare, logistics, and green finance, thus enhancing returns in one of Asia Pacific's most stable technology markets. About Burghley Capital Established in 2017, Burghley Capital Pte. Ltd. (UEN: 201731389D) equips investors with insightful market analysis and strategic foresight. To learn more, visit or contact Martin Wei for media enquiries at SOURCE: Burghley Capital Pte. Ltd. View the original press release on ACCESS Newswire
The Independent
12-03-2025
- Business
- The Independent
How to turn your DPP requirements into retail opportunities
Checkpoint Systems is a Business Reporter client James Barker, Director of Global Product Solutions at Checkpoint Systems, reveals how the right DPP solution can yield real business benefits for clothing retailers. Have you started planning your digital product passport (DPP) rollout? At the time of writing, the legislation will come into effect by 2028 and will impact all retailers putting apparel into the European market. The new legislation won't just fundamentally change the future of retail from the consumer's perspective; it'll irrevocably alter business infrastructure too. And each day brings the deadline closer. However daunting DPP implementation may seem, there are plenty of sustainability and business benefits to be gained as part of the transformation. Investing in the right digital platform and labelling combination could expedite ROI, improve efficiency, lower costs and achieve sustainability goals. What is DPP legislation and how will it impact apparel retailers? DPP legislation is part of the European Commission's Circular Economy Action Plan (CEAP) and a fundamental pillar of the European Green Deal. CEAP aims to promote circular economy processes by encouraging thoughtful product and packaging design and waste reduction. To help keep things transparent, some of this information will be available to customers through DPPs. A Digital Product Passport has two components: a centrally stored, digital source of product information and a DPP 'carrier' that is permanently attached to the product. Shoppers can scan the DPP carrier label with a smartphone and access that item's digital product information. This information should be easy to access on the shop floor and available until the end of that product's lifespan. To comply with DPP legislation, you'll need to gather environmental data on new and existing products, completely overhaul garment labelling and find a secure digital platform to store all that information for a decade or more. Given the dual challenge of compliant labelling and secure infrastructure, retailers should aim to find a partner experienced in both, with the proven ability to help secure a fast return on investment. With that in mind, our apparel labelling team developed CheckLINQ. CheckLINQ is Checkpoint System's data-centric answer to the digital component of DPP legislation and sits alongside our various compliant labelling options to give Checkpoint clients a scalable end-to-end solution. The platform, which we've already successfully piloted with an international apparel retailer, offers encrypted, GDPR-compliant information storage for millions of item-level data points. It uses robust APIs to pull product information from almost anywhere and sorts it into a compliant, customer-ready format. Although details on specific DPP data points aren't expected until late 2025, CheckLINQ's back-end can easily be modified to accommodate new information – as a CIRPASS2 member, we're well-placed to understand the requirements as and when they happen. Adopting now can help future-focused retailers get ahead while being flexible enough to give compliance for other environmental legislations, such as France's AGEC (currently live), which CheckLINQ has already been successfully piloted for. CheckLINQ's data-first, flexible back-end is what sets it apart from other DPP solutions on the market. We used our years of experience managing data connections through our CheckNet platform – which currently processes data from 14 million radio-frequency identification (RFID) labels per week – to create a platform capable of reliably meeting DPP requirements with seamless ease. Order less, sell more It's possible to reduce your carbon footprint and stock costs by using intelligent labelling solutions such as RFID as part of your DPP labelling overhaul. RFID inlays can provide quality data and inventory transparency with up to 99 per cent accuracy throughout your supply chain. Knowing exactly what you have and where can facilitate more accurate forecasting, smarter ordering and better allocation while allowing location-based merchandising, faster replenishment and reallocation. You'll send less deadstock to landfill, potentially reduce your carbon footprint and unlock the full value of your stock. Product authentication Your DPP labelling overhaul could also be an excellent opportunity to stamp out grey market activities, safeguard your brand and inspire consumer confidence. By integrating our NFC dual technology inlays or anti-clone QR codes into your new labels, you can empower consumers and authorised pre-loved resellers with the ability to verify genuine items with the scan of a smartphone. There's even potential to expand into innovative new areas, such as creating one-off digital twins or NFTs for your products. It's all possible with the right labelling partner. Enhanced consumer trust and engagement According to PwC's Voice of the Consumer Survey 2024, nearly a third of respondents felt transparency around environmental, societal and governance matters was crucial in establishing better brand trust. Consumers can use a DPP to verify your green claims at the point of purchase, complete with specific details such as your Higg Index score, which can be integrated easily via CheckLINQ. You could even take things one step further by upgrading to our NFC-enabled DUÉ labels to create new opportunities for interactive smartphone-based in-store experiences. In a future where consumers are increasingly bringing their phones into the purchasing journey, it's an incredible opportunity to upsell, inspire and engage. Big changes need expert guidance For many retailers, the upcoming DPP rollout will be a massive undertaking. If that weren't enough incentive to seek expert guidance, the slew of potential business and customer benefits attached to your label and platform choices certainly are. Partners such as Checkpoint have experience managing data connections with proven data integrity through CheckNet and decades of experience supporting some of the world's largest retailers with apparel labelling projects. We believe DPP legislation goes beyond environmental accountability and transparency; it's also an opportunity to kickstart a new era for your brand. One that drives better value for you, your customers and the planet.
Yahoo
22-02-2025
- Yahoo
In their words: Omagh families describe love and loss
Even through the sirens, the smoke, the shock - the world seemed to stand still. So recalled Jim Sharkey who spoke to the Omagh Bombing Inquiry about the aftermath of the deadliest attack in the history of the Troubles. By the time the sirens subsided and the smoke cleared, 29 people, including a woman pregnant with twins, had been murdered in the Real IRA attack. The world remained at a standstill for those families left behind and many more. A blinding moment when nothing was the same again. For almost three decades, those families have fought, campaigned and lobbied to be given the painful, poignant chance to stand up and speak their loved ones' lives into the public record. When the long-awaited inquiry began its hearings four weeks ago, finally that chance came. Relative after relative gave tender testimonials to the people behind the names reported so often since that day. For many it was the first time they had spoken publicly in 26 years. Here we remember every one of the 29, in the words of those who knew them best. James Barker was "a very fun-loving" child, who enjoyed golf and fishing. He was just 12 when he died in the bombing. His father Victor told the inquiry that his son had been "robbed" of his bright and happy future, which was "full of promise despite the learning difficulties that he had". James' mother purchased a holiday home in Buncrana, County Donegal, which Mr Barker said turned into a "more permanent residence in pursuit of a more idyllic life for her and her children". James always said how much he enjoyed it there, but always missed his father who had to stay in England for work. "The fulfilment of my wife's dream to return to Ireland and give her children a better life seemed so close to fruition," he said. "As he left the house that morning, he had a life full of possibilities before him." Fernando Blasco Baselga lived in Madrid, Spain, with his family, including his six brothers and sisters. The 12-year-old had travelled to Ireland for a language exchange with children from Buncrana and had been visiting Omagh as part of the trip. A statement from his family said he was "a good, happy and generous child with a love of handball and a love of food". "His favourite dish was rice salad, and his family would playfully tease him about his choice." Fernando grew friendships and took part in activities that, his family said, "made him grow as a person and as a Christian". "When his catechism group had asked what was important to him, his response was 'to reach heaven', pointing with an arrow upwards toward the word God. "That's what he wanted for his future. He didn't consider anything else." Geraldine Breslin was an "absolute class act". The 43-year-old worked as a shop assistant at Wattersons drapers in the town, and died alongside colleagues Ann McCombe and Veda Short. Her only child, Gareth McCrystal, said she was "an Omagh woman through-and-through". "She was authentic, she was genuine, she was kind and she was loved." Looking back to 1998, their life as a family was "filled with contentment", Mr McCrystal said. "She wanted our home to be warm and a place we could invite people into." This was a sentiment echoed by Geraldine's sister Rosemary Cooney. From a childhood marked by "kindness and energy" to becoming a wife and mother with a greeting card to send for every occasion and a phone call home every night at 21:00. Geraldine was the "cornerstone of our family", Ms Cooney said. Debra-Anne Cartwright was working in a beauty salon on the day of the bombing. The 20-year-old was a former Omagh High School pupil, who was "full of life and energy". She had been involved in "cross-community work" when she was at school and "had been to Denmark as part of a student exchange", a statement from the Cartwright family read. Debra-Anne was waiting for her A-level results and hoped to study textile design at Manchester University. "Her results, which arrived on the day of her funeral, confirmed that she had been successful," the family recalled. "A young man with so much promise, kindness and love." That is the legacy left by 18-year-old Gareth Conway, according to his sister Shawneen Conway. Despite his young age, Gareth was a "diligent, conscientious and humble young man who approached everything he did with a sense of care and precision", she said. Alongside his love of playing "soccer and Gaelic football", Ms Conway recalled her brother's passion for woodwork. One of Gareth's most cherished accomplishments was building a replica of the village chapel out of wooden clothes pegs. He had recently been accepted into university to study engineering. "He left behind a legacy of love, hard work and quiet strength that continues to be felt by those who knew him." Breda Devine was just 20 months old when her life was ended. She was from Donemana, County Tyrone, where her family lived, and had three siblings. Breda had been born three months prematurely. She was said to have "clung to life in hospital and had grown to be a healthy little girl", a statement from the Devine family read. "She was due to be the flower girl at the wedding of her uncle and auntie which was due to take place the following weekend." The family had travelled to Omagh town centre for a shopping trip to buy Breda shoes for the wedding. Eight-year-old Oran Doherty dreamed of playing for Celtic or becoming a shopkeeper. He was visiting Omagh from Buncrana on the day of the bombing and was killed alongside his friends Shaun McLaughlin and James Barker. Described by his mum, Bernie, as "happy go lucky and fun-loving", Oran was the fifth of seven children and loved going fishing with his dad, brother and friends. The family still have a jar of sweets, which Oran bought on the trip to the Ulster American Folk Park and left on the bus when he got off in Omagh. His mother recalled him asking about the Good Friday Agreement, which was signed a few months earlier in April 1998. "Oran had asked me what the agreement meant and I told him it meant there would be no more shootings or bombings in the north." He was killed four months later. "Oran would have been 34 years old now," Bernie said in a statement read by Oran's sister Lisa. "But to us he will always be the wee eight-year-old boy who went on a day trip on August 15, 1998." Self-employed mechanic Aiden Gallagher was killed in the blast while shopping with a friend in Omagh. His father Michael said Aiden always had a strong work ethic and from a young age knew the importance of doing things right. At college he studied car body repair where he enjoyed learning even "how the paint was made" and took "great pride" in his work. The 21-year-old had a "wide group of friends" from a range of "different backgrounds and interests". Mr Gallagher said his son would have been "the joker of the pack" who was very funny and would have his friends in "roars of laughter" with his comedic ability. "He enjoyed fun, he enjoyed company." He "didn't like bullies" as he had a "sympathetic nature" and preferred to be with people "that valued each other for the person they were". Aiden had a "very special bond" with his mother Patsy and was very close to his sister Cat. Esther Gibson lived on her family farm near Beragh, County Tyrone, with her parents and four sisters. Her family told the inquiry she was a "devoted Christian, who found joy and purpose in her faith". She was an active member in her church, serving as a Sunday school teacher. The 36-year-old was known for her "warmth and generosity" and was "looking forward to a future filled with hope and happiness" alongside her fiancé Kenneth. She was to have been a bridesmaid at her sister Caroline Martin's wedding. Ms Martin read a poem written by a close relative, which referred to Esther as a "silent, special bridesmaid" at her wedding. Mary Grimes lost her life on her 66th birthday, alongside her daughter Avril and granddaughter Maura. A former nurse and midwife, her "ethics" and "values" were woven throughout her life. "Our mother had a strong Catholic faith, a strong work ethic, and a deep sense of family values," said Fearghal, Mary's son. Mr Grimes recalled that his mother helped out in the milk parlour every day and never stopped cooking. The last loaf of bread that she baked was placed on the altar at her funeral. But Mary's biggest focus was to "devote all the time to the family home", said Mr Grimes. "At the Omagh bomb inquest in September 2000, the coroner, Mr John Leckey, opened the proceedings saying he could not recall any one family suffering such a loss in the history of the Troubles." Mr Grimes said if it hadn't been for his mother's love and compassion "we would not have been fit to carry on with the quiet dignity and resolve to make society a better place for everyone". Avril Monaghan was pregnant with twins when she was killed, alongside her mother Mary and her young daughter Maura. She was 30 years old. Speaking to the inquiry her daughter Aoibheann recalled the "warm and nurturing environment" her mother created for their family. "In a life marked by joy, love and loss, our mummy's story remains one of devotion to her family, a dedication to community and a profound love that continues to inspire those she left behind," Ms Monaghan said. This dedication to community can be seen in a poem about peace written by Avril when she was a young girl in the "farmlands of County Tyrone". "Oh that we, before it's too late, could cast aside the curse of war and hate. "Then pray that conflict among men would cease and let the world rejoice in love and peace." Ms Monaghan said the family was excited to meet the twin girls who were due to be named Eimear and Evelyn. An ultrasound image was shared at the inquiry. "Unfortunately, that day did not come, and the pictures of the scan are a reminder of the many futures that never became a reality following the bomb on 15 August 1998." Avril Monaghan's daughter Maura was the third generation of her family to be killed in the attack. She was 20 months old. She was born in 1996 and "quickly became a source of light and joy to our family and everyone around her" with her "bubbly personality" and "unmistakable head of curly hair", her sister Aoibheann said. "Though Maura's time with us was brief, her spirit lives on in the stories we share, the laughter we still find and the love that continues to bind our family together," she added. Ms Monaghan described how her parents had entered Maura into a Bonny Baby competition at the local summer fair. "Her bright eyes and playful demeanour made her a natural fit," she added. "Unsurprisingly, her curly hair and infectious laughter easily won the judges over." Olive Hawkes, 60, was a married mother of two who was killed while doing her Saturday shopping in Omagh. Her children said as a housewife, farmer's wife and "boss" of the home her priority was always caring for her family. Her son Mark and daughter Mandy, said she was "the glue that made the family so close", and that they were truly spoiled having her as their mum. She was a Methodist church treasurer and was highly regarded in both unionist and nationalist communities. She had been due to celebrate her ruby wedding anniversary just days after the bombing. "Ours was a céilídh house," said the family. "A welcoming home where neighbours and friends from all denominations were warmly received." Julia Hughes was aged 21 and "only beginning to fulfil her immense potential" when she was killed. She had been working in a photography shop when the bomb went off. In a statement, her twin brother Justin said they were born four minutes apart, and "remained inseparable" throughout their lives. Julia was a "fearless competitor" proven through her involvement with her school's debating and hockey teams, doing everything with a "great gusto". Mr Hughes recalled cherished memories of holidays and how they often got to celebrate their birthday in Spain. Julia always made sure her twin brother felt safe, taking his hand when boarding flights due to his fear of heights. Although Julia died just before her final year of accountancy, Dundee University awarded her degree to her family in 1999. To honour her, there is a Julia Hughes Prize at the university for someone who has overcome difficulties and adversity. Seventeen-year-old Brenda Logue was with her mother and grandmother on the day of the bombing. Cathal Logue, Brenda's brother, read a statement on behalf of their late mother, which paid tribute to a "sweet-natured girl" with great potential. She was a talented Gaelic footballer who represented Tyrone at minor and senior level and "was a natural goalkeeper who was tall and strong and, most importantly, had no fear". Brenda attended Dean Maguirc College in Carrickmore, where she fought and won the right for girls to wear trousers. Her argument: "It was unfair for the girls to be cold in skirts." "She was always a shepherd and never a sheep," Mr Logue added. Brenda wanted to become a PE teacher and "she would have followed that dream". Jolene Marlow, 17, was also a talented Gaelic footballer, winning a county final just one week before the bombing. "Jolene's future was so bright, with a desire to become a sports physiotherapist," her mother Bridie recalled. She was described as "an exemplary student through her school days". Before her death she had just started driving lessons. Jolene's mother's statement said her daughter was a "very popular member of staff" in her part-time summer job. She was set to go to university in Belfast for the next chapter of her "education and life". Ann McCombe, a shop assistant at Wattersons drapers in Omagh, was murdered alongside her colleagues Geraldine Breslin and Veda Short. The 48-year-old had two sons and had just celebrated her 25th wedding anniversary. Ann's husband Stanley said "we lost our world that day". "Ann was a wonderful and very, very caring person and I suppose that is why I fell in love and married her." Mr McCombe described Ann as a good Christian who loved her church, her family and everyone around her. Her son Clive recalled how his mother had a positive outlook. "My mother was rarely seen without a smile on her face," he said. "She was always happy. She always put herself last. My mother would always say 'if you can be anything, be kind'." Brian McCrory was described by his daughter as a "gentle giant" whose loss was impossible to convey. He was visiting a chemist in Omagh to have a film developed and to pick up a prescription. Louise McCrory said: "My dad was not just a name on a list, he was a loving husband, amazing father, uncle, colleague and neighbour." She added that the 54-year-old had "a beautiful, warm, comfortable smile that made everyone feel safe". "My mum lost her one-in-a-million husband, her best friend, confidant and father of her children." Mr McCrory worked in the family business and drove "his beloved Crafty Catherine crane, which he joked about spending more time fixing than driving". "He was the best father a son or daughter could ever have," Ms McCrory added. Samantha McFarland, 17, was killed alongside her best friend Lorraine Wilson, 15, while working as a voluntary shop assistant for the charity Oxfam. She was a former pupil at Omagh High School and was studying for her A-levels at Strabane College. Samantha was the youngest of three children and had been due to be a bridesmaid at her older brother's wedding in the month after the bomb, the inquiry was told. The teenager had "a lovely personality", with a "kind heart and genuine kindness". She got on with people, had been learning to drive and loved music and books. She also had a pet pony that she looked after. She was described as "popular, diligent and a person who passed with flying colours the test of life". Sean McGrath died in hospital three weeks after the explosion. He was born on the same street 61 years earlier. The retired businessman and father-of-four was described by one friend as "one of the loveliest men ever to walk the streets of Omagh". Mr McGrath's daughter, Noeleen, paraphrased Charles Dickens: "He was the best of men and not the worst of men." The only thing that annoyed him was injustice. "If my dad had a superpower, he would have been the protector." His son Conor said his dad's ambition to own his own business led to him opening his own bakery in Omagh. In the 1980s it secured a deal with Harrods, London to supply Irish bread. Sean's granddaughter Sara, who was born in 1996, had given him "a new lease of life". Shaun McLaughlin personified hope on the island of Ireland after the Good Friday Agreement, according to his mother. The 12-year-old from Buncrana in County Donegal was part of a school excursion to Omagh when the explosion happened. He was "so excited" about the trip, having been for the previous two years. Months before the bombing, he had presented a poem to the then Irish President Mary McAleese. It read: "Orange and green, it doesn't matter, united now won't shatter our dream." His mother Patricia McLaughlin said Shaun loved playing football and cycling with his friends. He was a "happy, lively and content" boy. "My first-born baby will always be in our minds and in our hearts," she added. Alan Radford was filled with "endless love and compassion for all". His sister Claire Hayes told the inquiry the 16-year-old was always willing to help neighbours cook, clean and cut the grass. Alan's "heart of gold" shone through, but particularly in his relationship with his mother, Ms Hayes added. "Whereas other teenage boys would have been knocking about the park, he had so much dedication to my mother he went every Saturday with her into town to help carry the shopping home. "Mum didn't drive, so Alan was there by her side every week." The lyrics of Michael Jackson's song Heal the World were words Alan lived by. Ms Hayes said she still had a tape cassette of the song in her bedside drawer. "Heal the world, make it a better place, for you, for me and the entire human race." Rocio Abad Ramos from Madrid was supervising a Spanish-Irish language exchange programme with Buncrana Primary School in County Donegal in the summer of 1998. The 23-year-old's sister Paloma said Rocio was "outgoing" and particularly "drawn to Irish culture". "She used to say 'I can see butter and peas everywhere' but in time she grew to love Irish cooking and would exchange recipes and make Spanish food for the Doherty family who she was saying with." Ms Abad Ramon remembered Rocio not only as a keen sportsperson and committed student, but as "an extroverted" woman who would "always be laughing and the first one to make a joke". "I think there are some people who are special from the moment they are born," she added. "She was felt as somebody special, that's something my mother used to say." Elizabeth 'Libbi' Rush was a mother-of-three who owned a shop in Omagh. She was well known to all and made numerous good friends, according to her family. She was a "good listener" and many people would call to her shop to seek advice. Her daughter, Siobhan, said her mum loved craft work and sold what she made in her gift shop. Libbi was "the glue that held the family together", its "moral compass". Her love and support carried her family and her husband Laurence's family through many challenging times. "We trusted her judgment implicitly," said Ms Rush. "She had empathy, respect and compassion for others." She "loved her family with every bone in her body". Veda Short, 56, worked at Wattersons drapers in Omagh and was on her lunch break when the bomb went off. The day before the attack, she had met her new grandchild Lee for the first time. She had photos taken and got to hold him. Ms Short was remembered as a "loving wife, mother and grandmother", in the statement given by her four children. She was very active within her church and the Women's Institute, and took a job with a neighbouring family so she could be at home for the children returning from school every day. Her family said she had "so much to look forward to", only just back from holiday in Alicante with her husband and two close friends. She "loved and adored" her eight grandchildren, with it being a family ritual for them to visit their nanny on Sundays. Philomena Skelton was 39 when she was killed, as she shopped for school uniforms. Affectionately referred to as "Mena", by her husband Kevin, he said they were like "chalk and cheese". Philomena liked to stay at home knitting and reading, while he was out working and refereeing sports. "People used to come and place orders for different things for children for Christmas. That was her full-time job, knitting," he said. A dedicated family woman, she did everything in the house, while he worked all the hours he could. "It was just the type of her," he said. Her husband remarked that they'd been together "two weeks shy of 20 years" when she died. Bryan White was shopping with his father Fred when they were both killed. "At the beginning, one the things that was hardest to come to terms with was the quietness of the house," according to Mr White's sister Linda. She said she and Bryan had a "typical" sibling relationship. "He was the type of person, no matter of his own personal views and values, he never judged anyone." The 27-year-old worked with people with disabilities and Ms White said he learned to see the strengths in people. He had just been promoted and was due to start his new job in Omagh the week of the bombing. Fred White was 60 when he and his son were killed in the attack. They were buried together. Linda, Fred's daughter, said her father always had time for people despite how busy he was. Fred had interests in gardening and woodwork and was involved in the community before he had a brain haemorrhage in 1989, which forced him to retire from his job. Fred's wife Edith said "the gardens and bits and pieces in the house would occupy him". "I used to try to always think he lived in our garage. He was a very active person." Linda White said she would get "emotional knowing that dad and Bryan aren't there in my children's lives". "I feel like they should be there at Christmas and birthdays. It's extremely difficult," she added. Schoolgirl Lorraine Wilson loved hockey and horse riding and dreamed of becoming an air steward and travelling the world. She was 15 when she was killed volunteering in the town's Oxfam shop alongside her best friend Samantha McFarland. "An easy-going person, who loved putting others first and would never let an angry word cross her lips," her family said in their statement. "A real homemaker" from a young age, she loved cooking and nothing made her happier than seeing people enjoy her food. She was described as "academically minded" with a flair for English, French, home economics and geography. Her family recalled her love of travel and her artistic and crafty nature. Her brother said he had held on to some of the toys she had made for him. Omagh bomb: The 29 victims Omagh bomb: Timeline of families' bid for justice
