Emergency Colleagues laid to Rest Wednesday 28th February 2007

March 3, 2007 - On behalf of all the members of the National Retained Firefighters Association, We extend our deepest sympathy to their families, friends and colleagues in Limerick County Fire Service and An Garda Siochána.

Our prayers and thoughts are with them.

NRFA Book of Condolences

In common with all emergency responders they went to assist a person in distress aware that their work is dangerous, but expecting to return to their families safe and well. We pray for them.

Garda and Fire Service teams had been called to the scene of a single car collision at Morgan South near Askeaton shortly before 5am where a car had overturned. During an operation to lift the vehicle on to a transporter, a Garda and a Firefighter were hit by an oncoming car. Both died instantly. Garda Brian Kelleher was based at Newcastle West and 48-year-old Firefighter Michael Liston was based at Foynes Fire Station. One man was arrested at the scene on suspicion of drink driving and taken to Henry Street Garda Station. The accident happened near Barrigone, Foynes. Minister for Defence and Limerick TD, Willie O'Dea has called the deaths a terrible tragedy. He offered his sympathies and those of the Government to the families of the bereaved. Mr O'Dea said people who work in the emergency services could be called out and at any time of the day or night and that made the deaths even more tragic.

Gardaí are appealing for witnesses, anyone with any information is asked to contact Askeaton Garda Station on 061-601630.