Then 13-year-old Cairns was last seen at approximately on October 23rd 1986. He had returned to his home for lunch from Coláiste Éanna school at 12.45pm. He left his home at 1.30pm and has not been seen since.
The nation was gripped by the ensuing search, which led to the discovery of his schoolbag in a lane near his home a week later. Gardaí believe the bag had been purposely planted at the scene as it was dry despite a week of rainfall.
At the time of his disappearance, Cairns was 5'2" with short dark hair. He was last seen wearing his Colaiste Eanna school uniform, a grey jacket with black shoulder corners, grey school trousers, grey shirt and school pullover.
On the 35th anniversary of Cairns' disappearance, gardaí have renewed their appeal for anyone with information to come forward.
"Following the passage of time and changing circumstances these people may now be in a position to assist us," a garda spokesperson said. "There may be persons, who were young at the time of Philip's disappearance and not in a position to provide An Garda Síochána with information, who may now be able to come forward. An Garda Síochána want to reassure anyone who comes forward that they will be treated sensitively and discreetly by investigating Gardaí, Even the smallest piece of information, which may seem insignificant, may assist the investigation."
Anyone with relevant information should contact Rathfarnham Garda station on 01 666 6500, the Garda Confidential Line on 1800 666 111 or any Garda station.
It is 35 years today since Philip Cairns disappeared, please keep his family in your thoughts
If you have any information, please phone the Garda Confidential Line on 1800 666 111 or any Garda station.#FindPhilipCairns #MissingPersonsSupport #HelpBringThemHome pic.twitter.com/vEaIiSI0bG
— Missing Persons Support (@MisPersSupport) October 22, 2021
