Madam, - The thought of the unimaginable pain and sense of loss that the family of the late Tara Whelan will have to bear in the coming months and years has prompted me to write this public "thank you" to Department of Foreign Affairs officials here in Dublin and their embassy counterparts around the world.
Having lost a family member tragically while on holiday in India in 2003, I feel obliged, on behalf of similarly affected families, publicly to acknowledge the work of officials in this particular Department.
In an age of cynicism towards and criticism of Government Departments, nothing could have prepared me for the sincerity, sensitivity and compassion shown by officials as they worked incredibly hard to ensure the timely and efficient final journey home of my brother. Their support was a great source of comfort to my parents and family at such a difficult time.
To the team at the Department of Foreign Affairs who handle such incidents, thank you for caring you do a tremendous job. - Yours, etc,
MOIRA MURPHY, Dún Laoghaire, Co Dublin.