Local politicians have expressed their deepest sympathies following the tragic deaths of Nan and Francie O’Reilly in Newcastle.
South Down SDLP MLA Seán Rogers has spoken out following the funerals of the couple who died at Bonny’s Caravan Park in Newcastle last Wednesday from suspected carbon monoxide poisoning.
Mr Rogers said: “My thoughts and sympathies are with the families of the couple who passed away. I understand from Police that they, along with the Health and Safety Executive are examining the facts and are considering suspected ca
rbon monoxide poisoning.
“This was such an upsetting and distressing incident for the whole tight knit community for Newcastle. May they both rest in peace.“
South Down Sinn Féin MLA Chris Hazzard said that the South Down community is in “shock” at the news of an elderly couple’s death in Newcastle.
He added: “The couple in their mid seventies died tragically as a result of carbon monoxide poisoning in their home at Bonny’s caravan park.
“The entire South Down community has been left shocked with this very sad news – it is a real tragedy that has left a very somber mood hanging over the area.
“A quiet, unassuming couple, both Francie and his wife Nan were well known in the community and will be sadly missed.
“The thoughts of everybody are with family and friends at this terrible time.”
“If indeed it transpires that carbon monoxide poisoning was the cause of death, it is another deadly reminder of the dangers connected to the gas.
“In the wake of the Health & Safety Executive’s investigation it will be vital that all possible measures are taken to address this threat in future.”
Sinn Féin Down District Councillor Willie Clarke has also expressed his sadness following the tragic death of Francie and Nan O’Reilly.
Cllr Clarke said: “ I have known the couple my whole adult life. Nan was friendly with my mother as they had went to school together. it is really heart-breaking. I would like to extend my deepest sympathy to the O’Reilly and McManus family circles.
“Francie and Nan had set up home at Bonny’s residential site located at the foothills of the Mourne’s, where they enjoyed their life together into retirement. They were very quiet reserved people, who would have assisted anyone in a time of need. Their passing will leave a great void to many family and friends, I will cherish my memories and be grateful for having known such special people.”
Newcastle area Alliance Councillor Patrick Clarke has also expressed his deep sadness and shock.
He said: “I am very saddened to learn of the deaths of the two elderly people who were found dead in a caravan at Bonny’s caravan park on the Tullybrannigan Road in Newcastle.
“The discovery of the two bodies in their home on the caravan park has deeply shocked the local and wider community in the popular seaside resort of Newcastle who are slowly coming to terms with the unfortunate and tragic news.
“On behalf of the people of Newcastle I wish to convey my deepest sympathies and profound condolences to the families of both deceased during this very difficult and traumatic time.”
