Bishop appeals for space, time and privacy for family of Valerie French Kilroy

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

‘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.’

Valerie's funeral is likely to be held in her native West Cork this week.