An Taoiseach Micheál Martin has spoken of the “heartbreaking loss of two young lives” in Buncrana last weekend.
Sixteen-year-old Emmanuel Familola and 18-year-old Matt Sibanda died following a tragedy off Ned’s Point in Buncrana on Saturday evening.
Mr Martin said he was “very saddened at the shocking and tragic passing of Emmanuel Familola and Matt Sibanda in Buncrana over the weekend.
“A heartbreaking loss of two young lives.
“Thinking of their families, friends, the local community and the first responders at this devastating time.”
Both of the deceased young men had come to Ireland from overseas.
Matt, whose family are originally from Zimbabwe, was a student at Crana College, while Emmanuel, who family was from Nigeria, attended Scoil Mhuire.
As students of both post-primary schools return to school today, Critical Incident Plans are in place to support them.
The schools say they will both reopen as normal today, with extensive supports in place for those affected.
The schools’ Student Support Teams, Critical Incident Teams, and entire staff are working closely together to provide comfort and support to students, parents, and colleagues during this extremely difficult time.
Psychologists from the National Educational Psychological Service (NEPS) and Donegal ETB, are also offering professional guidance to ensure the wellbeing of all affected.
Principals Kevin Cooley (Crana College) and Evelyn McLoughlin (Scoil Mhuire) said words cannot fully express the heartache being felt in both schools.
“Our school communities are devastated by this heartbreaking loss. Emmanuel and Matt were deeply respected and valued members of our student bodies, and their passing has left us all in profound shock.
“Our thoughts and prayers are with their families and with the wider Buncrana community. This is a tragedy that words cannot fully express.
“In the coming days, weeks, and months, we will continue to support our students, families, and staff with care and compassion.
“Our priority remains the wellbeing of everyone in our community. Finally, we extend our deepest gratitude to the emergency services and rescue teams for their swift and courageous response.”
Crana College and Scoil Mhuire say they will provide a space for students, staff, and parents to gather, support one another, and begin the healing process.
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