Brian Henry McDonald (51), known as Barney, was shot in the head as he pulled up outside a snooker club in Annaghbeg Park, Donaghmore, on April 17, 2002.

Today, on the anniversary of Barney's murder, his family have vowed they will not give up their fight for justice.

The father-of-eight had been called out to collect a passenger.

As he stopped outside the club, two miles from Dungannon, gunmen fired four shotgun blasts into his taxi, killing him instantly. Nobody has claimed responsibility for the murder.

In the first three years of the investigation 216 statements were taken, 209 items seized for examination and two premises searched.

In addition, two men were arrested and questioned about the murder and were later released without charge.

The family are now making plans to meet with the Ombudsman's office and are waiting on the latest update from the Serious Crime Review Team (SCRT) in relation to the investigation.

The McDonald family claim that it must have been someone their father knew who ordered the taxi.

"This is a very hard time for the family, especially for Barney's children," said his sister Margaret O'Donnell. "There is a lot of frustration and anger over the fact that we still have not got justice in spite of investigations by the Serious Crime Review Team, and the Police Ombudsman's Office. Brian's children need to have these ruthless cowards identified so that they can have closure to this heinous murder, and come to terms with the loss of their father."

Ms O'Donnell said the children have had their education disrupted and formative years blighted by the killing, which left them orphaned. The family also lost their mother six months prior to the attack.

Ms O'Donnell said she hoped that with the passing of time people might find it in their hearts to come forward with vital information.

"People change, their thinking is different, their allegiances change, friends drift apart and relationships break down," she said.

Appealing directly to the public she added: "Maybe there are some of you out there who are in this very situation who know something about someone who was involved in the murder of Brian, who would like to clear their conscience, or find it in their heart to tell what they know so these ruthless cowards can be put where they belong."

She added: "If they have a problem with going to the PSNI with any information there are other respected members of the community who they can speak to, for example a priest, solicitor or doctor. Despite the lapse of time it is not too late for anyone to come forward with whatever information they may have.

"It is never too late to do the right thing and help bring justice to a still grieving family."

Anyone with information please contact police in Dungannon on 02887752525 or use the Crimestoppers number anonymously on 0800 555 111.

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