Wexford man confirmed as fourth Irish victim of Asian tsunami

The body of the Co Wexford man missing since the Asian tsunami has been formally identified.

Michael Murphy, from Blackwater, was one of four Irish people who died as a result of the tidal wave.

The 23-year-old science graduate had been touring Australia last year and travelled to Thailand for Christmas. He was holidaying on Khao Lak island, one of the areas worst affected by the St Stephen's Day disaster.

Officials from the Department of Foreign Affairs confirmed to the Murphy family today that they had received positive results from DNA tests carried out on Michael’s remains.

The Parish Priest in Blackwater, Fr Hugh O’Byrne, said that the family were “relieved but saddened” by the news.

Michael’s mother Teresa Murphy said that arrangements were being made to fly his remains home for burial.