Cavan-Monaghan Fianna Fáil TD, Brendan Smith spoke of the “absolute shock” in the area after news of the tragedy.
Speaking on the Pat Kenny Show on Newstalk, Mr Smith said everyone was aware of the great excitement leading up to the Debs event. Students along with their families and friends gathered on Diamond to say goodbye.
“We don’t have adequate words to convey our sincere sympathy and deepest condolences to the families of the two girls who have lost their lives,” reports Breaking News.
He said the accident occurred on a busy road with heavy traffic, but warned against speculation.
The best educational and psychological therapies will provide all the support the school community needs to help people through this terrible tragedy, Smith added.
Schools, local youth clubs and Youth Work Ireland provided support yesterday and will continue to do so.
He said the Department for Education would not be seen as reluctant to offer support during this very difficult time to all those affected by the tragedy.
Mr Smith said: “The Debs are a source of great excitement in the area, for many it might have been the last time to catch up with friends before going on different career paths, it was a very important school experience,” reports Breaking News.
Meanwhile, Social Protection Minister Heather Humphreys, who represents the Cavan-Monaghan area, described the fatal accident as “every parent’s worst nightmare”.
“This is just terrible. It’s an unimaginable tragedy. My thoughts and prayers are with the families of the two young girls who have lost their lives and with those who are very seriously injured in hospital,” reports Breaking News.
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