One of the young men killed in the M9 crash on Sunday morning was “in the care of Tusla” and two more of the five teenagers who died were known to the agency, Tusla has confirmed.
The child and family agency said staff had been in contact with their families and that there is ongoing liaison with An Garda Síochána.
In a statement this evening, Tusla said: “Our thoughts are with all of those who have been affected by this tragic incident.
“We are mindful of the very challenging and sensitive circumstances surrounding this incident and it is a very traumatic time for individuals, for families, for staff and for wider communities.”
Tusla has said it is continuing to work with the Children and Young People’s Services Committee and partner organisations to ensure that the appropriate supports are available to all those affected, including families, local communities and others impacted by the tragedy.
Tusla has said it will share all information required with the National Review Panel – which independently reviews death or serious incidents to children known to Tusla or in State care – in line with standard reporting processes.
Joe Carthy from Athy, Co Kildare; Alex McCarthy from Carlow; Kamil Pustkowski from Limerick; Jeremy O’Brien and Jack Kennedy were killed in a head-on collision when their car was driven the wrong way down the M9 motorway in Kildare.
The funeral of Alex McCarthy will take place in The Holy Family Church, Askea in Carlow tomorrow afternoon, while the funeral of Jeremy O’Brien will take place in the same church on Monday morning.
The family in the second car – three women and a seven-year-old boy – are being treated in hospital for injuries sustained in the crash.
An online fundraiser for the family has already raised more than €500,000 and a vigil will be held for them in Carlow tomorrow evening at Saint Clare’s Church, Graiguecullen.
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