Search for doctor missing in Co.Donegal ends without breakthrough

By Michael McHugh, Press Association

A major search for a Northern Irish doctor who went missing a decade ago has ended without a breakthrough.

Gardai said nothing which furthered the hunt for Deirdre O'Flaherty, 46, was located during the operation in Milford, Co Donegal.

The former GP in Strabane, Co Tyrone, has not been seen since January 11 2009, when her car was found at Kinnego beach.

A Garda statement said: "Gardai investigating the disappearance of Deirdre O'Flaherty have completed their search operation at the site in Milford Garda District Co Donegal.

"Unfortunately nothing that furthers the search for Deirdre was located during the search.

"The site is on private property and remains closed to the public.

"Today is also the 10th anniversary of the disappearance of Deirdre and our thoughts are with her family and friends and it is requested that the privacy of her family is respected at this time."

Gardai carried out a land search and excavation in a bid to find her body.

She had been staying with her family at a holiday home when she went missing.