School and GAA club pay tribute as boy who died in Clare hotel pool named

Shay Lynch, 7, from O’Brien’s Bridge in Clare was a first-class student in Scoil Seanain Naofa in Clonlara

Seven-year-old Shay Lynch, a pupil of Scoil Seanáin Naofa, Clonlara, died in an accident in a Clare hotel on Saturday.

The little boy who died in an accident in a Clare hotel has been described as a boy who had a bright smile and a kind heart.

Shay Lynch from O’Brien’s Bridge in Clare was a first-class student in Scoil Seanain Naofa in Clonlara.

He died in an incident in the pool at the Lakeside Hotel in Killaloe on Saturday afternoon.

In a statement on Sunday night, the school principal Donnchadh Kelleher described the seven-year-old as a “beloved pupil”. 

The statement added: “His bright smile and his kind heart endeared him to everyone in our school community. He will be greatly missed.” 

He is survived by his parents Tania and James, and his sister Abi.

Mr Kelleher said offers of support have been pouring in and are greatly appreciated. 

He added: “Our school has implemented our Critical Incident Management Plan. We are liaising with the National Educational Psychological Service to ensure support structures are in place to help our school community cope with this tragedy.” 

Clonlara GAA club also paid tribute, saying: “This evening, after a beautiful sunny Sunday and a titanic display of hurling in Ennis, we have the saddest news to reckon with as a club and a community as we learn of the death of one of our members, Shay Lynch.” 

As a member of the Under 9s team, Shay was “talented, loved and valued” by the team, said the statement.

The club has suspended its activities over the coming days.

The statement added: “Our hearts, thoughts, prayers and deepest condolences go out to Shay's parents, James and Tania, his sister Abi and his extended family, his many friends, teammates, coaches, Clonlara school staff and all connected with him in our club and Official Truagh Camogie Club.” 

A tribute has also been paid by Clonlara Community Childcare which said: “We have very fond memories of Shay’s time with us in the Creche and our thoughts and prayers go out to Shay’s parents Tania and James, his sister Abi and all his friends at this incredibly sad and difficult time.” 

Earlier on Sunday, the Taoiseach, Simon Harris, said on X that the tragedy was “absolutely heartbreaking”. 

He added: “I know people right across Ireland are keeping this family and the community of Clonlara in Co Clare in their thoughts and prayers at such a sad and difficult time.” 

The leisure club at the Lakeside Hotel will remain closed for the coming days, according to a post from the hotel on their social media.