Ahern expresses sympathy to family of dead garda

The Taoiseach, Bertie Ahern, has expressed his sympathy to the family of the garda shot dead in Abbeyleix, Co Laois, yesterday evening.

Mr Ahern said the incident is a chilling reminder of the dangers gardai face in the line of

duty.

He said the death was “very sad and regrettable”.

The Tanaiste, Mary Harney, said she was “shocked and saddened” by the news, while Fine Gael

leader Michael Noonan offered his sympathy to the garda’s wife and children.

The President, Mary McAleese, asked Garda Commissioner Pat Byrne to pass on her condolences to the dead man’s family.