Gardaí say DNA samples taken from Philip Cairns' schoolbag do not match those from convicted paedophile Eamon Cooke.
However, it is understood that Cooke is still a suspect in the investigation:
13 year old Philip Cairns was last seen leaving his home in Rathfarnham on October 23rd, 1986, when he was returning to school after lunch. His schoolbag was found in an alley close to his home six days later.
A few months ago a woman came forward to tell detectives that she saw Philip in convicted paedophile Eamon Cooke's pirate radio station on the day he went missing.
This information prompted investigating detectives to test DNA evidence found on Philip's schoolbag.
However, Gardai have confirmed this afternoon that the forensic samples have not established a connection with any named individual.
Gardai say the investigation is ongoing, and certain documents, diaries and tapes are still due to be forensically examined.
They have appealed for anyone with information to come forward.
