Sr. Imelda Carew and Sr. Paula Buckley, members of the South East Province of the Presentation Sisters got into difficulty in the water off Inch Strand yesterday evening.
The alarm was raised at around 7 pm yesterday – when the women were discovered in the water at the popular Kerry tourist spot.
The two sisters from the Presentation Order were holidaying in the area when the tragedy happened.
The Shannon based coastguard and water rescue services scrambled to the scene and the pair were air lifted to Kerry General Hospital but were pronounced dead a short time later.
While based in Dublin, Sister Imelda Carew and Sister Paula Buckley were originally from Cashel and Dundrum in Tipperary
In a statement to Tipp FM, Congregational Leader of the Presentation Sisters Union, Sr. Mary Deane, said they are all stunned and shocked by this tragedy adding that “words seem inadequate” to express their loss and sorrow as they come to terms with the tragic events that unfolded on a beautiful sunny evening.
Sr. Deane said it was a tragic loss for both the order and the families of the two sisters who were a source of inspiration and blessing to many people throughout their lives.
She added that their thoughts and prayers are with the families, communities and friends of Sr. Carew and Sr. Buckley.
