Family of woman killed in Dominican Republic calls for government to bring those involved to justice

Sarah Slater

The family of a Wexford woman killed in a hit-and-run incident in the Dominican Republic are calling on the government to assist them in bringing those involved to justice.

Claire Cullen, from Riverchapel, Gorey, travelled abroad to attend her brother’s wedding last November when the fatal incident occurred. She is survived by her husband Ronan and their three children.

Cullen has been described locally as being an accomplished hairdresser with her own home salon called Eden Hair Design.

The case was raised in the Dáil this week by Fine Gael Gorey-based TD Brian Brennan, who described Cullen’s death as “a tragic case” and outlined the devastating impact on her family.

Brennan stressed that the family’s focus now is on justice.

He said that as the Cullen family are based here in Ireland, they are seeking “assurances from the Department of Foreign Affairs and the Irish Government that all possible efforts will be made to assist them in their pursuit of justice.”

He added that the situation represents “every family’s worst nightmare” and outlined that securing accountability for those responsible is what Cullen’s family deserves.

Brennan also acknowledged the efforts made to return Ms Cullen home, saying her family appreciated the support of the Kevin Bell Repatriation Trust, the Irish Consulate and the Department of Foreign Affairs during the repatriation process.

He described the mother as an “extremely kind, popular and a talented young woman.”

A fundraising campaign has been set up to help Cullen’s family to cover legal costs as they attempt to bring the alleged perpetrator to justice.

The deceased woman's sister-in-law, Helen Cullen, detailed how the Wexford woman died instantly, and the driver fled the scene without offering any help to Claire or her family.

She said: “Our family is completely heartbroken. We are doing everything we can to support her husband, Ronan (my brother) and their boys during this devastating time.

“Legal fees should be the last thing any family has to worry about, but unfortunately, we must pursue a legal case in the hope of securing some justice for Claire, Ronan and the boys.”

To date, more than €35,000 has been raised.