A young girl who was tragically died after an accident with a van will be laid to rest by her "heartbroken" family on Friday.
Aoibheann Duffy, 11, was cycling near her Abbeydorney homein north Kerry on Monday evening when she was struck by the van shortly after 7.30pm.
Gardai and emergency services rushed to the scene and every effort was made to try and save her life.
She was taken to University Hospital Kerry in Tralee where she died.
The van driver, a man in his 50s, was also taken to UHL for treatment of non-life threatening injuries.
In a tribute to the little girl, Kerry TD Michael Healy Rae said: “Everybody in the county of Kerry is heartbroken for the loss of the child.
“No word or deed can ever express our sorrow for the family and the extended family. Our thoughts and prayers are with them at this most awful time.”
Aoibheann was also a member of the Abbeydorney Ladies Gaelic Football Club Under 12s.
As a mark of respect, the club called off training and posted to social media saying: “Late last night we received the sad news of the tragic death of one of our young club members following a road accident on the Tralee Road.
“ALL training is CANCELLED for this evening Tues may 11th and we ask you to include her and her family in your prayers at this traumatic time for all.
“May her gentle soul rest in peace.”
And Aoibheann's family have now confirmed that she will be laid to rest following a funeral service on Friday.
A post on RIP.ie reads: "Aoibheann Duffy of Beenreigh, Abbeydorney, Co. Kerry and formerly of Tarmon, Kilkee, Co. Clare, tragically on 10th May 2021.
"Adored daughter of Patrick and Nuala (Henchy) and dearest sister of Michael, Katie, Gavin, Ruth, Michaela & Daniel. Sadly missed by her heartbroken family, her grandparents John & Mary, uncles & aunts Noel, Christina, Denise, Joan, Catherine & Philomena, Godmother Emily, her eight cousins, relatives, neighbours and friends.
"Rest in Peace.
"A private family funeral will take place for Aoibheann with the Requiem Mass being celebrated at 12 noon on Friday in St. Brendan’s Church, Ardfert (streamed on www.churchmedia.tv/camera/st-brendans-church-1) followed by interment in the Abbey Cemetery, Ardfert."
