by Dionne Meehan
A MOTHER and her two daughters who were killed in a crash will be laid to rest in Donegal tomorrow.
Úna Bowden and her daughters Ciara (14) and Saoirse (11) were fatally injured when their car collided with a lorry on the on the N17 in Castlegar, outside of Claremorris, Co. Mayo.
Originally from Raphoe, Úna and her family had been living in Moycullan, Co. Galway.
Úna, Ciara and Saoirse will repose at the home of Úna’s father John Carlin, (Carlin Farm) Miltown, Raphoe (F93TH72) from 7pm on Monday, April 1.
Requiem Mass will be celebrated in St Eunan’s Church, Raphoe tomorrow, April 3 at 12 pm with interment afterwards in the family plot in the old graveyard, Convoy.
The girls were former players with Oughterard Rugby Club, while their mother provided IT support on a voluntary basis.
Oughterard Rugby Club spokeswoman Julie Ann Brown said they were devastated by the tragedy and their thoughts were with Úna’s husband, David, who was working abroad when it happened.
“Saoirse and Ciara were such beautiful girls,” she said.
“They both played an active part in Oughterard rugby and were members of the girls side of it. They were very involved both on the sideline and on the pitch and will be very fondly remembered.”
Ms Brown said the two girls had “beautiful big smiles that lit up any room or any playing field”.
“Úna provided us with invaluable IT support, especially during the Covid crisis.
“We’re all in immense shock here in Oughterard rugby club.
Meanwhile, Gardaí continue to appeal for information.
Any road users who may have camera footage (including dash-cam) are asked to make this footage available to Gardaí.
Anyone with any information is asked to contact Claremorris Garda Station on 094 9372080 or the Garda Confidential Line 1800 666 111.
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