'Deadly Silence' author to headline ODVSS event at Tullamore Library

The best-selling author of a powerful book which recounts the events leading up to the brutal murders of Clodagh Hawe and her three young sons in county Cavan in 2016 will speak at a special event in Tullamore next month hosted by Offaly Domestic Violence Support Service (ODVSS).

The late Clodagh Hawe's only sister, Jacqueline Connolly, is the author of 'Deadly Silence' a deeply moving and courageous account of unimaginable loss, resilience, and truth. She will join Will Faulkner from Midlands 103 for a special fireside chair interview in Tullamore Library at 5.30pm on Thursday, December 4 next to discuss the book which has shocked the nation.

On 29 August 2016, news broke that Jacqueline’s sister Clodagh and her three nephews, Liam, Niall, and Ryan, were brutally murdered by Alan Hawe, who was Clodagh's husband and the boys' father.

In her book, Jacqueline Connolly bravely recounts the events leading up to that devastating day, shedding light on Hawe’s manipulation, coercive control, and the hidden patterns of abuse that culminated in the tragedy. 'Deadly Silence' also exposes serious failings in the initial Garda investigation and shares previously unpublished insights from the Garda Serious Crime Review, providing an unflinching examination of how systems and society can fail victims.

This poignant event forms part of the “16 Days of Action”, a global campaign dedicated to raising awareness about violence against women and girls. Through sharing her story, Jacqueline hopes to break the silence around domestic abuse, inspire meaningful change, and remind communities of the critical need to recognise and respond to the signs of coercive control.

Anne Clarke, Manager of ODVSS, who are hosting the Tullamore Library event, said Jacqueline Connolly's courage and determination to speak out about her sister’s story has "touched countless hearts across Ireland and beyond". She added that 'Deadly Silence' not only honours Clodagh, Liam, Niall, and Ryan but it also challenges us all to "confront the realities of domestic abuse" and work together to prevent further tragedies.”

Members of the public are warmly invited to attend this important evening of remembrance, awareness, and hope.

Event Details:

📖 Author Reading & Discussion: Jacqueline Connolly – Deadly Silence

📍 Tullamore Library

🗓 Thursday, December 4

🕔 5.30 p.m.

🎟 Free event – Booking required

📞 057 935 1796 | 📧 info@odvss.ie

For more information about the work of Offaly Domestic Violence Support Service, visit www.odvss.ie or follow ODVSS on social media for updates throughout the 16 Days of Action.