Tributes have been paid to a Leaving Cert student who has died almost a week after an accident while swimming in Co Kerry.
Luke Silles, 18, from Ballymacelligott, was swimming by Fenit Pier in north Kerry last Saturday 17 May, when the incident occurred.
He was in a critical condition following the accident but died last night at University Hospital Kerry
The young man was a sixth-year student at CBS The Green in Tralee where he was preparing to sit his Leaving Certificate exams.
Kerry County Council's Leas-Chathaoirleach Fionnán Fitzgerald, who was one of Luke's teachers, said he was "very popular" and "highly regarded" by both staff and students.
In a statement on behalf of the school, he said: "Today CBS The Green and the surrounding community are coming to terms with the passing of our student Luke Silles.
"Our thoughts and deepest sympathies are with his parents Tony and Paula, his brother and sister Oran and Aimee, his extended family and large circle of friends.
"No words can capture our sense of loss and pain at this time. Our hearts are broken."
'Sun set in a black cloud'
Cllr Fitzgerald described him as "kind, gentle, thoughtful and good humoured" who "cared deeply for all and engaged positively with everyone".
He added: "He had a kind word and a smile for all he met. The loss of Luke is deeply felt by all who knew him but he will be remembered for the light he brought to our lives."
The school has implemented its critical incident plan and has been working closely with various agencies, particularly the national educational psychological services to provide support for students and the wider school community.
Luke represented the school in both football and soccer, while also played for his local GAA club Ballymacelligott.
Paying tribute, Ballymacelligott GAA said the "sun set in a black cloud" following Luke's death.
It said in a statement: "The sun set in a black cloud last evening as our community mourned the loss of our beloved Luke Silles
"Luke was sporting, witty, smart and roguish. He was called early by our creator at just 18 years of age.
"His family and our club have been denied a great man."
