Mary White (Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I wish to express my sympathies to the families in the Traveller community of those who died tragically early on Saturday morning: Thomas and Sylvia Connors, their children, Jim, Christy and Mary, who was aged just six months, William Lynch, his partner Tara Gilbert, their children, Jodie and Kelsey, and William's brother, Jimmy. Tara was also pregnant with the couple's third child. The relatives of those who died, the whole community in Carrickmines in south County Dublin and people from all over Ireland are devastated and numbed by this enormous loss of life, which saw an entire family taken from us. We cannot fathom the depth of the grief felt by the friends, families and colleagues of those who lost their lives. Images of the smiling families have been printed across every newspaper in recent days, showing how close and happy they were, and truly put into context the enormity of the loss. It is particularly heart breaking for members of the Traveller community, who cherish family connections strongly.

I also wish to express my sincere sympathies to Nicola Golden, her children, Lucy, Alex and Andrew, and the extended family of Garda Tony Golden, in particular his parents, David and Breege, his sister, Mary, and his four brothers. Garda Golden was taken from us in the line of duty in Omeath, County Louth, on Sunday. We were all moved by his bravery. Garda Golden's last act was to help a person in dire need, a woman who was a victim of domestic violence. As a result, he made the ultimate sacrifice, losing his own life. His colleagues cannot speak more highly of him, his dedication to the Garda and his absolute commitment to public service and people in all circumstances. He was known as a true gentleman who showed professionalism in all aspects of his duties. The Golden family deserve every support that we can give while its members try to come to terms with their enormous loss. I wish to extend my sympathy to the Dundrum Garda station and its gardaí, who have helped me with my public meetings on crime, including burglaries. I know how dedicated they are to public service.