RYAN STATEMENT ON MAYO HELICOPTER CRASH

Labour Transport spokesperson and Dublin TD, Brendan Ryan, has expressed his sympathies with the families, friends and colleagues of the Rescue 116 Coast Guard helicopter crew whose aircraft went missing off the coast of Mayo in the early hours of this morning.

Deputy Ryan said:

“I echo the sentiment of the Irish Coast Guard which has said it’s a dark day for Ireland’s emergency services.  

“My thoughts and prayers are with the family, friends and colleagues of Captain Dara Fitzpatrick who it has been confirmed has sadly passed away. It is difficult to imagine the pain and sense of loss they must be feeling at the moment.

“My thoughts are also with family, friends and colleagues of the other brave missing crew members of the Dublin Coast Guard, who are anxiously awaiting news of their loved ones. We are all hoping for the best possible outcome for them.

 “I would also like to pay tribute to the entire Coast Guard crew, some of whom have been taking part in the massive search for their colleagues today, which is another testament to their strength and professionalism. This tragedy is a sad reminder of the risks the emergency services face every day to keep us safe.”