GAA PRESIDENT CHIRSTY Cooney has paid tribute to Ciarán Jones, a member of the Garda Síochána who died tragically during the flooding on Monday.
Twenty-five-year-old Jones was trying to help people affected by the floods when he was pulled into the River Liffey.
His body was recovered yesterday morning at Ballyward Bridge at Manor Kilbride in Wicklow.
The Kilbride footballer was part of Mick O’Dwyer’s senior football panel in the county in 2007 and 2008, as well as volunteering as a referee at juvenile level.
“Ciarán’s passing has struck a chord with everyone, including those of us here in Australia,” said Cooney, who is currently on tour with the International Rules panel in Melbourne.
“He lost his life doing what he did every day – looking out for others – and it is a tribute to the character of the man that he was off duty on Monday night when he got into difficulty.
“Speaking to those who knew him, he was highly regarded, a free spirit, the life and soul of his club and someone who energised people.
“I offer my heartfelt condolences to this family and wide circle of friends and of course his club where he will also be sorely missed,” he added.
Earlier, An Taoiseach Enda Kenny, Garda Commissioner Martin Callinan and Justice Minister Alan Shatter extended their sympathies to the jones family.
once again fair play to this heroic young man lord rest him, It was heartening to listen to the Joe Duffy program and the individual stories about other Gardai and citizens going above and beyond to help their fellow man. Well done to all involved.
Terrible loss – A man just trying to keep the local population safe, at the expense of his life. Another unsung hero. RIP.
I have three strong adult sons and my heart goes out to Ciarán’s family. What a brave young man.
I have one son the same age, I don’t know what I would do if anything happened to him. God rest him, and give his family strength to go on! Hero, though that’s no consolation to those left behind, RIP.
Sad loss
Terrible way to lose the lad, seemed very highly regarded in the community.
Awful lose to his family, friends, community and colleagues. RIP
RIP. Terrible loss to his family and friends. A truly brave young man. My deepest sympathy to his loved ones.
He sounds like he was a really good man, RIP.
RIP, A brave man putting his community first and himself last. Know his brother very well, very hard on the family and everyone who knew him.
I hope the family know that every Garda, parent, brother, sister, cousin etc is thinking of Ciaran Jones family right now. May he rest in peace and forever be remembered for the help and support he gave his community each and every day! RIP Ciaran
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