The Tapas 9 are criticised for not attending the reconstruction but we don't get the same criticism levelled at the Smiths. I have just realised what could be the driver behind the whole process. Trouble is saying it.
The Smiths had already been over in May 07. If there had been a firm request, perhaps they would have gone over again. What on earth could they have re-enacted apart from what they'd already done the first time?
According to his book, Amaral's main idea was to get the "Smiths" (without specifying who amongst them) back over to make a "formal identification" of Gerry.
IMO, it was a much better idea for Rebelo to seek clarification via their local police force first. At least there wouldn't have been any interpretation issues. Even if they'd all been adamant that it was indeed Gerry after all, they could have signed affidavits from there, which would have then been translated for the PJ files.
What intrigues me is whether he only intended to bring over Martin and possibly his wife or all of them (including those who didn't think it was Gerry).
Answers on a postcard...