The parents of Swiss teenager Manuela Riedo who was murdered in Galway in 2007 have confirmed that fundraising has been suspended in the foundation established in their only child’s name.
During a weekend visit to Galway they also said funds raised have yet to be distributed pending the outcome of an investigation launched in Switzerland.
But Arlette and Hans-Peter Riedo said that victims of sexual assault will continue to benefit for years to come from the foundation set up in their daughter’s name.
They declined to go into any detail about the controversy surrounding the resignation of founder Brendan McGuinness, a Dublin native who owns a pub in Basel, and were anxious on a visit to Galway to concentrate on the projects which are planned by the foundation.
A press conference in Salthill on Saturday was told that the Riedos are interested in projects that include education and prevention work, and help for victims of sexual crimes.
The parents have visited Galway a couple of times since the 17-year old was murdered just days after arriving in the city to study English.
Gerard Barry (30), 187 Rosan Glas, Rahoon, Galway and who is originally from the Mervue area of the city, is serving a life sentence after being convicted of murdering her on dates between October 8 and 9 in 2007.
Manuela had only arrived in Galway a few days earlier to learn English when she was attacked as she walked from her accomodation in Renmore to the city centre.
The recent resignation of Mr McGuinness, who had organised a fundraising event in Switzerland, followed disharmony with Manuela’s parents. Fiona Neary of the Rape Crisis Network said it was necessary to sort out issues surrouning funds raised in Switzerland.
“It is not appropriate at this time to have any discussion regarding ongoing matters in Basel, which we believe will be clarified.