Collins solicitor appeals for privacy for sons

REACTION:SHARON COLLINS was comforted by her two young sons after she heard the jury's guilty verdict at the Central Criminal Court yesterday.

Shortly after she was taken into custody, pending sentencing on October 8th, her family made a statement outside the court.

Her sons Gary and David, along with her ex-husband Noel, stood beside her solicitor Eugene O'Kelly as he spoke on their behalf.

The impact which the trial's outcome would have on Ms Collins's sons was emphasised by Mr O'Kelly who said that their lives have been "shattered" by what had happened.

He also highlighted the fact that the two men had sat beside their mother in the court room for most of the 32-day trial.

"I would like to say that the two persons who are most affected other than Sharon as a result of this verdict are her two sons.

"These are two fine young men that have displayed loyalty and devotion and love for their mother as they have stood by her in this trial, and their lives have now been shattered as a result of the outcome," he said.

The solicitor also made an appeal for privacy for Ms Collin's sons, who are in their early 20s.

"I would ask that they would be afforded the respect and privacy to adjust to the changed circumstances.

"These circumstances are entirely not of their making and they now have to move on, and I would ask that you would afford them the privacy and space so that they can do this with dignity," Mr O'Kelly said.

The solicitor referred to Ms Collins's denial of all the charges against her during the trial.

"Sharon Collins has maintained her innocence in this trial. The jury have found her guilty. The judge has adjourned sentencing for the preparation of reports accordingly in relation to the verdict. It is inappropriate to comment any further at this stage."

PJ Howard and his two sons, Niall and Robert, also issued a statement after Ms Collins was found guilty of conspiring to murder the three of them.

The three men were among some 90 witnesses who gave evidence during the trial.

"We are relieved that this long trial has come to a conclusion and we would like to express our appreciation to the members of the jury for their patience and attention," the statement read.

"It is also appropriate to record our gratitude to the many people who have assisted us during this difficult period.

"We now look forward to getting on with our lives and we request the privacy that's necessary to assist us in this respect."