An Irish woman, named Elaine O’Donovan, drowned in Lanzarote on Tuesday. She was on a holiday with family members.
Ms O’Donovan, an environmental engineer, was originally from Waterford and was currently based in London. She had studied engineering in Cork, and was in her 40s. She used to travel around the world with her work.
“Elaine was deeply loved by her family and her many friends all over the world. She loved her work as an environmental engineer which took her to the most dangerous parts of the world where she worked to improve the lives of those who so badly needed her help” a statement issued by the O’Donovan family said.
“Elaine touched the lives of everyone who knew her. She will be very sadly missed” the statement concluded.
Fianna Fáil councillor Adam Wyse described the incident as shocking and said people in Waterford had been left stunned by the news.
“It’s a very sad time for her family and friends,” he said.
“The whole city is talking about this, people are just shocked,” he told the Irish Independent.
“I would like to extend my deepest sympathies to her loved ones at this time.”
“People have been saying that she was a real family person.”
“It’s so sad to think that she was away on holiday and trying to enjoy herself, it just shows you never know what can happen.”
“It’s tragic, I think the fact she was on holiday means people can really relate to this.”
Sinn Féin councillor Breda Brennan described the incident as ‘heartbreaking’.
“It’s going to be a very sad time for her family and friends, it’s heartbreaking,” she said.
“I just want to send my condolences to them.”
A spokeswoman of the Department of Foreign Affairs said that it is providing consular assistance to her family.
On Facebook, one person wrote: “Such sad news. Gorgeous girl with great humour.”
Another friend commented: “Beautiful lady inside and out. Always smiling.”
You must be logged in to post a comment.