"My thoughts today are with Ray, Kathleen, Cathal, Amy, Ryan and all of Ashling’s family and friends.

"None of us can comprehend the grief and loss they carry every day.

"Their beautiful daughter, sister and friend, a young woman with so much to offer the world, was taken from them.

"Ashling’s murder shocked us all. It moved us to action, demanding an end to violence against women.

"Our determination to achieve that grows stronger every day. For Ashling, and in painful memory of so many other women who have been killed and those who suffer still.

"I would like to express my gratitude to the members of An Garda Síochána, our emergency services who responded to the scene, and all those throughout the criminal justice system who have persevered with the prosecution of this most difficult case.

"But today, we think of Ashling’s family and the communities of Mountbulus, Blueball, Tullamore and her school community in Durrow.

"Their lives have been changed forever.

"Ashling should still be at their side, but I know the warmth of her spirit will never leave them.

"May she rest in peace."