Funeral of Monaghan under-20s GAA captain to take place

The funeral is to take place on Wednesday of Brendan Ógie Ó Dufaigh, the captain of the Monaghan under-20s GAA team, who died on Friday night in a road collision.

The 19-year-old was returning from playing in the Ulster football championship, where he lead his team to victory in the semi-final against Donegal, when the crash happened. He was the driver of one of two cars which collided on the N2 at Tullybuck, Clontibret, at around 11.30 pm.

The young man, known as Ógie, worked at Kingspan. He is survived by his parents Brendan and Esther, his sisters, Claire and Áine

The footballer’s funeral mass is to take place at St Macartan’s Cathedral, Monaghan, at 11 am, followed by burial in St Joseph’s Old Cemetary, Latlurcan.

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Because of the Government pandemic restrictions, the funeral is only for family and friends.

Mr Ó Dufaigh’s body is to repose at his home from Monday evening to Wednesday morning, when it will leave at 10.15 am.

In a statement issued over the weekend, Monaghan GAA said it was “deeply saddened” by the tragic passing of Mr Ó Dufaigh.

“We extend our heartfelt sympathy to Brendan Óg’s family, his father Brendan, his mother Esther, and his sisters Claire and Áine, and to his friends, his teammates, and his club Monaghan Harps,” a statement said.

“Our thoughts and prayers are with his family at this very difficult time. Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam.”

His club Monaghan Harps tweeted that it was “devastated at the news of the untimely death of our senior player and county U20 captain Brendan Óg Ó Dufaigh”.

“Our thoughts are with his family and friends at this very sad time. All club activity has been postponed until further notice.”

Former Irish international rugby player Tommy Bowe, who is from Co Monaghan, said it was "heartbreaking news" to hear of the young footballer's death.

“Sending my deepest condolences to his family and friends,” he said.

Sinn Féin TD Matt Carthy said there was a dark cloud over Co Monaghan after “such a tragic loss of a wonderful young man. Deepest sympathies to all who knew and loved him”.

Several county boards and local GAA clubs have also expressed their sympathies.

Gardaí are appealing to anyone who may have witnessed the collision to come forward.

Any road users who were travelling in the area and who may have camera footage (including dashcam) have been asked to make it available to investigating gardaí.

Anyone with any information in relation to this incident is asked to contact Monaghan Garda station on 047 77200, the Garda Confidential Line on 1800 666 111, or any Garda station.