Gardai investigating the case of a Tullamore woman, Ms Fiona Pender (25), have received new information following an appeal to coincide with the second anniversary of her disappearance.
It is believed that information has been given to gardai in the Offaly town in recent days. Last night RTE reported that a statement had been made in the case.
However, it is believed the informant has not made a formal statement, but gave confidential information by telephone, which is being investigated.
"It's encouraging that something like this could be out there," a Garda source said. Gardai and her family are convinced she was murdered.
It is understood the new information does not relate directly to the whereabouts of Ms Pender's body, and is not expected to lead directly to anybody being charged with her murder.
Her baby was due on October 22nd, 1996, two months after she disappeared. Her boyfriend, Mr John Thompson, the son of a local farmer, said he last saw her at their apartment in Tullamore on Friday, August 23rd.
Mr Thompson and members of his family were arrested and questioned about the murder in April 1997, and released without charge.
The Dublin Chamber of Commerce confidential telephone line, Crimestoppers, has offered a £5,000 reward for information. Tullamore gardai can be contacted on (0506) 21305 or the Garda Confidential Line, 1800 666 111. The Crimestoppers number is 1800 25 00 25.
