A young boy of seven years old, Shay Lynch from Clonlara village, Co Clare, unfortunately drowned in a pool at the Lakeside Hotel and Leisure Centre in Killaloe while participating in a confirmation celebration of his friend. Local authorities are investigating the tragic event which took place around 3pm on Saturday.
The unconscious boy was retrieved from the pool and emergency efforts were attempted at poolside to revive him. Despite being immediately transported to University Hospital Limerick, he subsequently passed away.
Shay Lynch, who was a pupil at Scoil Seanáin Naofa in Clonlara, is mourned by his sister Abi and parents Tania and James. The community of Clonlara and the entire nation shares in their sorrow at such a painful time, as expressed by Taoiseach Simon Harris who termed the event as “absolutely heartbreaking.”
The boy’s demise was publicly acknowledged by the Lakeside Hotel and Leisure Centre, which has opted to close the leisure centre for some days as a sign of respect. In a statement issued on Sunday, they expressed deep condolences to the grieving family and acknowledged the aid of their lifeguards, team members and the emergency services.
The incident has left the residents of Clonlara and the wider community stunned, as expressed by local Independent councillor, Michael Begley. He extended his sympathy to the deceased’s family and friends, and noted the high regard in which the Lynch family is held, particularly at a time when the community was engaged in a cheerful celebration.
Clonlara GAA Club honoured a cherished, gifted member of its Under 9s squad in a formal statement. The headmaster of Scoil Seanáin Naofa located in Clonlara, Donnchadh Kelleher, mentioned about Shay on a platform, X, through an official message, expressing how his radiant grin and gentle spirit won the hearts of all in the educational setting. His absence will be deeply felt. The institution has unfolded their critical incident management system and is working in collaboration with the National Educational Psychological Service.