Dublin – The Irish government has extended its condolences following the tragic crash of an Indian aircraft en route to London, which claimed the lives of nearly all passengers on board. Taoiseach Micheál Martin and Tánaiste Simon Harris expressed their deep sorrow and solidarity with the victims’ families.
Prime Minister Martin described the crash as “heartbreaking and profoundly tragic”. He extended his thoughts and prayers to the families affected across India, the United Kingdom, and Canada, acknowledging the immense grief caused by the loss of so many lives.
The Taoiseach also noted the poignancy of the incident occurring so close to the 40th anniversary of the 1985 Air India Flight 182 bombing, which remains one of the worst aviation disasters in history. That flight, known as the Kanishka, exploded off the coast of Ireland due to a terrorist bombing, killing all 329 people on board, most of whom were Canadian citizens of Indian origin.
“Ireland understands the depth of this loss,” Martin said. “We remember vividly the pain of the 1985 tragedy, when the remains of those lost were brought ashore in the village of Ahakista. This current disaster brings back those memories, and our hearts go out to those grieving.”
The small village of Ahakista in West Cork, where the victims’ remains from the 1985 disaster washed ashore, continues to commemorate the event annually on June 23. Wreath-laying ceremonies, interfaith prayers, and memorial services are held by local residents, Indian community organisations, and relatives of the victims, keeping the memory of the tragedy alive.
Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Affairs Minister Simon Harris also issued a statement, calling the crash “devastating and horrifying”. He conveyed condolences to the families of the deceased and reiterated Ireland’s support during this time of mourning.
According to early reports, the aircraft involved in the current tragedy was a Boeing 787 Dreamliner, which crashed shortly after take-off from Ahmedabad Airport. It was carrying 242 people, with only one survivor reported.
Among the victims were:
- 169 Indian nationals
- 53 British citizens
- 7 Portuguese nationals
- 1 Canadian national
The cause of the crash is under investigation by Indian aviation authorities.
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