Diocesan News22 Mar 16

Statement by the Bishop of Derry and Raphoe, Ken Good, following the Tragedy at Buncrana Pier

I am profoundly saddened by Sunday evening’s tragedy in Buncrana, which resulted in the loss of so many lives.

It is impossible for most of us to comprehend the depth of heartache that the bereaved are experiencing. For Louise, in particular – who has lost two of her children, Mark and Evan; her partner, Sean; her mother, Ruth; and her sister, Jodie–Lee – the sense of loss is inconceivable. I pray that she, and the wider Daniels and McGrotty family circles, will experience God’s grace and consolation in the days that lie ahead. I offer my most heartfelt condolences to all who have been bereaved.

I commend members of the public who did their utmost to prevent the loss of life – and succeeded in saving baby Rioghnach–Ann – on Sunday evening, and those in the rescue services for their professionalism, commitment and compassion in the most difficult of circumstances.