Kildare And Leighlin Bishop Gives Statement Ahead Of Carlow Prayer Vigil For Injured Family Involved In M9 Crash

Tomorrow's Vigil will take place in Saint Clare's Church, Graiguecullen in Carlow.

The Bishop of Kildare and Leighlin has issued a statement following Sunday's horror crash on the M9 near Moone, in which five teenagers died and four family members in a separate car were seriously injured.

A prayer vigil will take place tomorrow at 6.30pm for Niamh and Alma Kinsella, Ella Hendricken and seven-year-old Yemi, in Saint Clare’s Church, Graiguecullen, Co Carlow.

Bishop Denis Nulty has said the following:

"I share the widespread revulsion, upset and anger at what happened on the M9 just outside Carlow last Sunday morning as we deal with the impact of that appalling collision that has left a family of three sisters and their nephew seriously ill in hospitals and claimed five young lives.

"My thoughts and prayers are with all those affected by this deeply tragic and avoidable loss. The road ahead will be very tough for Alma, Niamh, Ella and their nephew Yemi, as they continue to cope with their injuries. The days ahead will be difficult for parents, families and loved ones as they lay their boys to rest.

"This accident is a sharp reminder that all of us share an enormous responsibility when we sit behind a wheel at any time.  We must never condone the irresponsibility of others nor glorify wild or undisciplined behaviour, as if it was fun or something to be shared on social media.  All of us need to reflect on our behaviour and our serious responsibility to other road users. We must value and protect our own lives and the lives of others.

"I commend the Gardaí, the emergency services and the first responders who were called to the scene on the M9, and they too are very much in my prayers.  

"I also commend the Prayer Vigil in Saint Clare’s Church, Graiguecullen, that will take place tomorrow, Friday at 6.30pm, the GoFundMe online fundraiser, and the many ways in which our community is coming together in solidarity, compassion and support for the victims at this time.

"It is during times like this that the realisation around the fragility of life confronts us all. As people of faith we must always hold onto the gift of peace.

"May those recovering from their injuries, and the families grieving at this time, know they are not alone and that the Lord is with them to comfort and strengthen them as they pass through this valley of tears."