Family’s Heartbreaking Victim Impact Statement Reveals Deep Loss and Demands End to Violence Against Women
The sister of Ashling Murphy delivered an emotional eight-page victim impact statement at the Central Criminal Court, demanding an end to violence against women. Amy Murphy, who remained composed throughout her statement, expressed the profound grief and loss her family has experienced. She highlighted the difficulty they faced in maintaining dignity during the investigation and murder trial, stating that this was their first opportunity to truly express their pain.
Amy began her statement by reflecting on their role as children, setting the dinner table for five people every day. She painted a picture of their lively family life filled with music, laughter, and the normalities of everyday routines. However, she emphasized that the table was always set for five, symbolizing the absence of her beloved sister Ashling.
Describing Ashling as the glue that bound their family together, Amy spoke of her sister’s nurturing nature, her sense of humor, positivity, and hope. She highlighted Ashling’s talents as a musician and her dedication as a teacher, painting a vivid picture of a life cut short.
Amy acknowledged that Ashling’s murder had become a watershed moment, demanding an end to violence against women in Ireland. She expressed the family’s pain at seeing her sister’s story exploited for the sake of popularity and how they had been thrust into the unwanted role of victims in their fight for justice.
The impact on the family goes beyond Ashling’s loss. Amy revealed that their love for Irish music was forever changed without Ashling’s presence. Their musical connection was one that could never be replicated. Amy lamented the loss of their shared experiences, describing how Ashling’s pink fiddle case now lies covered in dust, serving as a cruel reminder that they will never play together again.
The heinous act of violence inflicted upon Ashling shattered their perception of society’s safety. Amy confessed that their once-trusting outlook had been tainted, leaving them cautious, nervous, and suspicious. The murder brought to light the dangers lurking in their community, right under their noses.
Expressing their gratitude towards the gardaà for their investigative work, Amy also criticized empty promises of increased CCTV in Tullamore to ensure the safety of women in the town. She emphasized that these promises were never fulfilled, leaving women vulnerable.
Amy directly addressed Jozef Puska, Ashling’s killer, expressing her disbelief at the evil that he embodied. She condemned him for disrespecting Ashling’s memory by spinning lies and attempting to masquerade as a good Samaritan. She lamented the pain and trauma inflicted on her family by his actions and lack of remorse.
In her concluding remarks, Amy acknowledged that no punishment could bring Ashling back. The pain the family experiences is immeasurable, and no medication or counseling can heal their hearts. As a sister, she vowed to protect Ashling’s memory and honor the warmth, beauty, and meaning Ashling brought to their lives.
Although the family will carry the burden of Ashling’s loss, they hope that her tragic story will contribute to the greater cause of ending violence against women and create a safer society for all.
