Gardaí, investigating the disappearance and murders of two women who went missing in the 1990s, are starting a search operation on open ground near the Wicklow/Kildare border.

21-year-old Jo Jo Dullard was last seen in Moone, Co Kildare in November 1995, while 18-year-old Deirdre Jacob was last seen alive near her parents' home in Newbridge in July 1998.

Photo of Deirdre Jacob

The area of land in Co Wicklow will be searched and subject to excavation as well as technical and forensic examinations over the coming days.

In a statement, An Garda Síochána said it continues to keep an open mind into these investigations and follow up any information which is brought to the investigation team, based at the Serious Crime Review Team.

The search is being led by the Serious Crime Review Team, Garda National Bureau of Criminal Investigation supported by the Garda National Technical Bureau and local resources from Kildare Division, while the search operation has the support of other state expertise, if it's required.

Photo of Jo Jo Dullard

Gardaí have said they have been, and continues, to keep the families of Jo Jo Dullard and Deirdre Jacob updated in relation to these investigations.

Investigating officers have renewed their appeal for anyone with any information, no matter how small or insignificant someone might believe it to be to contact any Garda station.

Anyone who wishes to provide information confidentially should contact the Garda Confidential Line on 1800 666 111.