Initial Statement by The Right Rev Dr Paul Colton,

Bishop of Cork, Cloyne and Ross

in response to the tragic death of

Valerie French Kilroy

The Right Reverend Dr Paul Colton, Church of Ireland Bishop of Cork has made the following statement in response to the news of the tragic death in recent days in County Mayo of Valerie French Kilroy, a native of County Cork, and a member of the Church of Ireland.

Statement:

‘Together with her family, and all the community in County Cork and further afield, I am shocked by the tragic death of Valerie French Kilroy.  Valerie grew up and went to school in this Diocese. Her family are very well known to us all, including to me personally. This is a time of immense trauma for everyone.’

‘The local clergy here, and I myself, are doing our best to stand alongside and support the family at this time, as also have the bishop and clergy in County Mayo.  I have no doubt that what they need most of all for the moment is time to be together and to make arrangements, without intrusion, for Valerie’s funeral. I would appeal to everyone to give them space and time, as well as privacy to do this.’

‘My own thoughts and prayers at this time are with everyone who is caught up in or who has been affected by this terrible tragedy.’

– Ends –

Further information from:

Church of Ireland Press Office

Church of Ireland House

61–67 Donegall Street

Belfast, BT1 2QH

Tel: (028) 9082 8880 (from NI)

Tel: (048) 9082 8880 (from RoI)

Email: press@ireland.anglican.org

Peter Cheney

+44 (0)7774 295369

Janet Maxwell

+353 (0)87 948 4412