Statement from Dr Michael Smith, Bishop of Meath following fatal accident in Co Offaly

04 Apr 2006

PRESS RELEASE

4 APRIL 2006

STATEMENT FROM DR MICHAEL SMITH, BISHOP OF MEATH

FOLLOWING FATAL ACCIDENT IN CO OFFALY

Arrangements have recently been put in place to commemorate the memory of the five young
girls killed in the bus tragedy outside Navan in May last year. That another such bus
tragedy should involve young people from another school in the diocese is something that
will evoke both shock and grief.

I extend my deepest sympathy and prayerful support to the White family on the death of
their son killed in this latest tragedy. Many pupils have suffered injury but the
response of the services has been excellent and one trusts all of them will make a
quick recovery. It is a traumatic experience for the whole school community.

The solidarity and prayerful support of all in the Diocese will be with the White family,
with all the injured and with the whole school community as they seek to come to terms
with the outcome of this appalling accident.

+Michael Smith
Bishop of Meath
4th April 2006

Further information:
Martin Long Director of Communications (086 172 7678)
Brenda Drumm Communications Officer (087 233 7797)