Tributes have been paid to a brave volunteer cave rescuer who died during an open-water dive last weekend.
Michal Marek, 36, from Poland, passed away while taking part in a dive at Malin Head, Co Donegal.
He had been living in Galway with his sister Agnieszka.
Michal has been described as "an avid explorer" and a keen member of the Irish Cave Rescue Organisation (ICRO), participating in several missions and rescues.
Posting a poignant tribute on their Facebook page, the ICRO wrote: "The Irish Cave Rescue Organisation (ICRO) is deeply saddened to learn of the death of our teammate and friend, Michal Marek.
"He was an avid explorer filling his life with underground and underwater adventures as a caver and cave diver.
"Michal was involved in a number of significant feats, including the discovery and exploration of Cliff Cave, Fanore, Co. Clare, which is the longest marine cave in Ireland.
"He also continued the exploration started by the late Artur Koslowski, in Pollatoomery, a cave in Co. Mayo.
"Michal's exploration saw its depth increase from 103m, achieved by Artur, to 113m, which is an Irish cave-dive depth record."
"Michal joined our team in 2014, and quickly became a regular participant at rescue exercises and workshops, always eager to learn new cave rescue techniques and help out when needed.
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"And subsequently, he was appointed a core-team member, in acknowledgement of the important role he played in, and skills he brought to, the team.
"He will be a huge loss to ICRO and will be missed by all who worked with him.
"Michal is survived by his parents and sister. ICRO extends its sincere sympathy to them at this difficult time.
"And, we offer our assistance in the days, weeks and months ahead if and when required."
One person said: "A terrible loss of such a friendly guy".
Another added: "RIP Michal Marek".
