Irish family involved in crash are improving in Australia

The condition of three Irish people seriously injured in a traffic accident in Australia is improving.

Gerard Brosnan, aged 55, of Port Road, Killarney, Co Kerry; his wife, Marguerite, 52, and their daughter, Karen, 28, are still in hospital following Sunday night’s two-vehicle collision, in Perth.

Mr Brosnan has been moved from the intensive care unit to the trauma unit at Royal Perth Hospital and his condition, which had been critical, is now described by the hospital as serious but stable.

Marguerite and Karen are also reported to be serious but stable.

The couple had been visiting Karen and another daughter, Claire, in Perth. Their 56-year-old male Australian friend, who had been driving the vehicle in which they were travelling, died in the crash.

The 20-year-old driver of the other vehicle has been charged with drink-driving and dangerous driving causing grievous bodily harm. He is due in court early next month.

Gerard, who has undergone surgery, had been in an induced coma and has been speaking to people at his bedside.

Marguerite suffered fractures to her legs and hands, while Karen sustained facial injuries.

The couple went to Australia a week prior to Christmas and had been due to fly back home today, but they could be in Australia for some time as they recover from their injuries.

The extended Brosnan family, in Killarney, meanwhile, is getting regular reports from the hospital and is making plans for some members to go to Perth in the coming week.

A family member said all three were doing better and thanked the local community for their prayers and messages of support.