An Irishman has died after falling ill during a diving trip to Egypt.
Carlow native Martin Peter Flynn passed away on Friday following a "brief illness".
Hundreds of online tributes have been paid for the 45-year-old, who went by the nickname ‘Murt’.
Mr Flynn, who was described as a “gentle soul”, was on a week long diving holiday with Kilkenny Sub Aqua Club.
His family run Flynns Foodhall in Tullow and they posted a heartbreaking message on Facebook following the tragedy.
They said: “Martin Peter Flynn “Murt” passed away this evening in Sharm El Sheikh, Egypt following a brief illness.
“Murt had been having the time of his life on a diving trip with Kilkenny Sub Aqua Club when he suddenly took ill.
“We thank everyone for their kind words and prayers over the last few days.
“May Murt Rest in Peace. Ray.”
Another wrote: “I am shocked to learn of Murt’s passing. He was such a lovely gentle soul and always had the time to stop and say hello.
“Deepest sympathies to you Ray and your mother Muriel. May he Rest In Peace.”
Another fellow diver from his club posted: “Kilkenny Sub Aqua club are devastated by the loss of their friend and club-mate Martin Flynn on a club holiday to Egypt.
“Our sympathies and condolences go to his family and friends. Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam.”
One friend wrote: “I’m sitting here in New York only after hearing the tragic news of Murt Flynn’s passing, to say I’m shocked is an understatement.
“Only spoke on Friday last about his upcoming holiday and mine, only goes to show tomorrow is never promised, RIP Murt.”
The Department of Foreign Affairs are aware of the case and are offering consular assistance.
Efforts are being made to have Mr Flynn’s remains released by authorities in Egypt to relatives and funeral arrangements are expected in coming days.
The small fishing village of Dahab is located 80km northeast of popular tourist spot Sharm el-Sheikh.
Dahab is considered to be one of the best diving spots in the world.
