Department Confirms There’s ‘Strong Reason To Believe’ An Irish Couple Have Been Killed In Tunisia

The Department of Foreign Affairs has confirmed that there is "strong reason to believe" that a further two Irish people were killed in this week's Tunisia massacre. A spokesperson said tonight that relatives of the couple, understood to be in their 50s and from Westmeath, have been contacted by Irish officials and a full identification process is ongoing. Over 30 holidaymakers were killed on Friday when a gunman, believed to be a member of terrorist group ISIS, opened fire on a holiday resort in the country.

“This is a tragic and difficult time for the families and loved ones of those concerned. I appeal for their privacy to be respected and for sensitivity to be observed in the reporting of this tragic event, " said Minister Charlie Flanagan.

“As of now, the Irish Embassy team is not aware of any other cases of potential concern in relation to Irish citizens. We will continue to actively monitor the situation pending full identification of all those who have died and who have been injured."

Lorna Carty from Meath was confirmed as the first Irish citizen to be killed in the atrocity yesterday evening.