Sinn Fein MLA Colm Gildernew – the uncle of Mr Ó Faoláin – confirmed his nephew’s death in the tragic incident, releasing a statement on behalf of the wider family.
“It is with great sadness that we learn of the death of our nephew Fiachra Ó Faoláin after a tragic accident in Carrick Lough on Saturday evening,” he said.
“Our immediate thoughts are with Fiachra’s mummy, our sister Fiona, daddy Shane and his siblings Dearbhla, Roisín, Méabh, Dáithí and Dualtách and the wider Ó Faoláin and Gildernew families at this immensely difficult time.
“Fiachra was a much loved, loving and caring young man with a bright future ahead of him and he will be remembered fondly by all who knew and loved him.
“On behalf of Fiachra’s family, and our wider family circle, I want to extend our sincerest thanks and gratitude to the emergency services for all of their efforts and support.
“As the family begins to process this devastating and unimaginable loss, I would urge the media to respect their request for privacy at this time.”
A post on Funeral Times described his death as an “accident” and Mr Ó Faoláin as the dearly beloved “grandchild of Phelim and Geraldine Gildernew and Eileen and the late Patsy Fullen”.
The posted said that he is “sadly missed by his many aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends” and that funeral arrangements would follow.
It’s understood Mr Ó Faoláin, who was in his early 20s, entered the water shortly after 11pm on Saturday June 1 and got into difficulty.
A search operation involving police, NIFRS and Community Search and Rescue volunteers, was immediately launched and his body was located on Sunday.
A PSNI spokesman said: “Police will make enquiries into the circumstances surrounding the death and a post mortem will take place in due course, however at present the death is not believed to be suspicious.
“Our thoughts are with the family and friends of the deceased.”
News Catch Up: Wednesday 29th May 2024
William Turner is a seasoned U.K. correspondent with a deep understanding of domestic affairs. With a passion for British politics and culture, he provides insightful analysis and comprehensive coverage of events within the United Kingdom.
