Three Spanish students who were caught up in the Omagh bomb have returned to Buncrana, Co Donegal, and are expected to take part in a remembrance service in the town this weekend. Two of their friends, Fernando Blasco (12) and Rocio Abad Ramas (23) were killed in the blast along with three Buncrana school children. A remembrance service will be held in the town on Sunday.
The three Spanish students are among a group of 20 students who arrived in Co Donegal last week for a month-long stay. Buncrana priest Father Shane Bradley said local people were delighted by the visit.
"The fact that they have returned sends out a clear message that life will go on as normal and we will not be deterred by the actions of the bombers. Had the Spaniards not returned, then their absence would have been felt by the whole community."
It is understood that the parents of both Spanish victims of the Omagh bomb are due to visit soon. "Both Fernando and Rocio's parents have declared their intention to come to Ireland at some stage," said Father Bradley.
Representatives from Omagh will take part in the remembrance service in Buncrana. A civic reception and wreath-laying ceremony will take place at the graves of the three Buncrana victims on Saturday.