Sinn Féin candidate for the Midlands North West EU constituency, Michelle Gildernew, has thanked the large numbers of people from across Ireland who have extended condolences to her family following the tragic death of her 21 year old nephew, Fiachra O’Faoláin, in Carrick Lough over the weekend.

Michelle Gildernew said:

“Our hearts are broken following the death of our wonderful nephew Fiachra.  He was a funny, impulsive, kind and generous young man who will be missed so deeply by all of us.  My thoughts are with his parents and brothers and sisters who are experiencing the most unimaginable grief.

“I want to thank all of those people, from across Ireland and around the world, who have been in touch to send their sympathies and prayers to us. Your support means so much to the entire family at this time. 

“I hope people will understand that I will not be on the election trail in the coming days as my family tries to cope with this awful tragedy.   Farewell Fiachra a stór mo chroí.”