Two tragic accidents have claimed the lives of two young children in Ireland. Andre Ladeiro, an 8-year-old boy of Portuguese descent, died after being critically injured in a collision in Carrigaline, Co Cork. Savannah Barry Calvert, a 14-year-old girl, was hit by a car in Limerick city center. The increasing number of road deaths in Ireland has raised concerns, with Taoiseach Leo Varadkar expressing deep concern over the issue. The Road Safety Authority (RSA) has already held discussions with garda chiefs to address the rising numbers, which are currently 30% higher than last year. So far this year, 108 people have lost their lives on Irish roads, 14 more than the same period last year.
Andre Ladeiro was crossing the road near the Ballinrea roundabout in Carrigaline when the accident occurred. He was with one of his parents and his younger sibling at the time. He was immediately taken to Cork University Hospital (CUH) and later airlifted to Temple Street Children’s Hospital in Dublin due to his head injuries. Despite the efforts of medical professionals, Andre passed away on Wednesday evening, surrounded by his family. Andre was a student at Owenabue Educate Together National School, where he was described as a joyful and kind-hearted boy who brought light to every room he entered. The school community is devastated by the tragedy, and the school has implemented its critical incident management plan. Psychologists from the National Educational Psychological Service (NEPS) are providing support and guidance to the school.
Savannah Barry Calvert’s family also expressed their grief on social media. Denika Calvert, her sister, wrote a heartbreaking message, unable to comprehend the loss of her beloved sibling. Channelle Calvert described Savannah as a kind and innocent child whose smile brightened the lives of everyone she encountered. The accident occurred near Limerick’s Bank Place shortly before midnight. Savannah was taken to University Hospital Limerick with serious injuries but sadly passed away. Gardaí in Limerick are appealing for information about the incident.
The increasing number of road deaths in Ireland is a cause for great concern. The RSA and gardaí are working together to address this issue and prevent further tragedies. The loss of Andre Ladeiro and Savannah Barry Calvert is a devastating reminder of the importance of road safety and the need for everyone to be vigilant on the roads. The thoughts and sympathies of the nation are with the families and friends of Andre and Savannah during this unimaginably difficult time.