The parents of a 15-year-old girl who died while swimming at a beach in Co Dublin yesterday have thanked the community for their support.
Abbie Carmody-Pepper from Ballymun had been visiting Burrow Beach with friends when she went missing after entering the water.
Her body was recovered from the water following a search operation involving the Coast Guard, gardaí, and RNLI from Howth yesterday evening.
The Irish Coast Guard was requested to assist in the search by gardaí, as well as Howth RNLI, shortly after 6pm.
Howth RNLI inshore lifeboat attended the scene and Abbie's body was recovered and transferred to Howth RNLI station.
Local councillor for Ballymun Gavin Pepper expressed his sympathy to Abbie's family, who are relatives of his.
"I was shocked and saddened to hear of the passing of Abbie Pepper in a tragic accident in Sutton yesterday. It was even more heartbreaking to find out we are related.
"I visited the family this evening, and on behalf of my cousin Wayne and his partner Mandy, they wish to thank everyone for their love and support at this difficult time.
"They now wish for privacy to grieve their daughter in peace."
Fianna Fáil councillor Cathal Haughey extended his sympathies to Abbie's family and friends.
He said the beach had been very busy over the weekend.
"Lots of people travel here by DART. There could be thousands, and that was the case this weekend when this tragedy happened," Mr Haughey said.
"We’ve been enjoying the good weather all over the country, and it’s a reminder of how quickly things can turn when you’re in the water.
"The whole community is very saddened and shocked, and we’d like to extend our sympathy."
