Nóra Quoirin 'Has Truly Touched The Whole World'

The heartbroken family of Nóra Quoirin have issued a statement after the teenager's body was found in Malaysia.

The 15-year-old's family offered their thanks to all involved in the search for Nóra, saying she has "truly touched the whole world".

Her body was discovered by a small stream, about 2.5 kilometres from the jungle resort of Dusun where the family were staying, nine days after the vulnerable teen disappeared from her bedroom.

A post-mortem is due to take place on Wednesday to determine the cause of death.

Around 350 search and rescue personnel had scoured the dense jungle area, with the family offering £10,000 for information as the search ramped up on Monday, donated by an anonymous Belfast-based business.

In an emotional statement after identifying Nora's body on Tuesday, the devastated family said: "We would like to thank all the people that have been searching for Nóra and trying their best to find her. We thank the local people here and those far and wide for their prayers and support at this time.

"Nóra has brought people together, especially from France, Ireland, Britain and Malaysia, united in their love and support for her and her family. She has truly touched the whole world. To all our friends and family at home, we can't thank you enough for all your love.

"Nóra is at the heart of our family. She is the truest, most precious girl and we love her infinitely. The cruelty of her being taken away is unbearable. Our hearts are broken.

"We will always love our Nóra."

The Quoirin family, who have lived in London for 20 years, had travelled to Malaysia for a holiday. The teenager's mother is originally from Belfast and had made several emotional appearances in the media since her daughter went missing.

Fundraising pages set up by Nóra's aunt and uncle had collected more than £100,000 from well-wishers. The discovery of her body led to an outpouring of tributes and support for the family.

Speaking yesterday, Sinn Fein Leader Mary Lou McDonald said: "My heart is broken for the family of Nora Quoirin. I cannot begin to imagine their grief.

"What started as a holiday of a lifetime has ended in this unimaginable tragedy.

"I wish to offer my deepest condolences to Nora's family and loved ones at this sad time."



(JG/CM)