The local community is in mourning after a fishing accident on Monday claimed the lives of Martin Oliver and his son Tom.
Tom (37) died on Monday afternoon after the tragic accident, and the family was hit with a second tragedy when his father Martin died on Monday night.
The RNLI lifeboat was called to the incident at lunchtime on Monday when their fishing boat got into difficulty near Salthill.
Tom was then brought to University Hospital Galway by ambulance and his death was announced on Monday afternoon.
Mayor of Galway City Mike Cubbard said a “dark cloud hangs over the city as the sudden departure of two gentlemen has left a void in the lives of so many.”
“Rest in Peace Martin and Tom Oliver, you will be sorely missed by so many near and far. My deepest sympathies to their families at this sad time.”
The deaths of Martin and Tom have shocked their Claddagh neighbours and friends as well as the local community in Galway city and beyond.
The Oliver family have been renowned fishermen and seafarers for generations and many have served as lifeboat volunteers.
In August, relations of theirs, Patrick Oliver and his son Morgan, saved two cousins Sara Feeney and Ellen Glynn after they drifted out to sea overnight.
RNLI Galway Lifeboat also extended their condolences to the Oliver family yesterday evening.
“The Crew extend our sincere condolences to the Oliver Family especially our Crew members & their many friends. May Martin & Tom Rest in Peace.
“Fair Winds and Following Seas.”
RIP
