Irish ambassador to Turkey dies

Ireland’s ambassador to Turkey, Sean Whelan, died today. He was 61.

The cause of death was not announced.

During his three years in Turkey, Whelan “made important contributions” to the development of ties between the two countries and was much respected in Turkey, the ministry said.

Funeral arrangements were not known, but his remains were to be flown to Ireland by a Turkish military plane following a ceremony at Ankara’s airport on Tuesday, the ministry said.

Whelan is survived by four sons.