Irish woman among those killed on Malaysian flight

An Irish woman was among those killed on Malaysia Airlines flight MH17, it has been confirmed.

She has been named as Edel Mahady, aged in her 50s, from Dublin, who had been returning to her home in Australia following a visit to Ireland.

Minister for Foreign Affairs Charlie Flanagan has called for an international independent inquiry into the disaster.

"Sadly, we have learned that one Irish-born citizen was on board the flight to Kuala Lumpur, " he said.

“On behalf of the Government and people of Ireland, I would like to convey deepest sympathies to her family, both in Ireland and in Australia, who have suffered this sudden and devastating loss.”

It is reported Ms Mahady was a mother of two from west Dublin who had been living in Perth, in western Australia, for two decades. She was travelling on an Australian passport.

Mr Flanagan said he spoke with the woman’s family earlier to pass on his condolences.

“I assured them that my department is available to provide any assistance they may require over the coming days and months.”

The Minister added: “Ireland fully supports calls for a full, independent international investigation to establish the cause of this grave tragedy and to ensure that those responsible are swiftly brought to justice.

"I encourage all the authorities involved - and the parties to the conflict in Ukraine - to work together, to ensure that the hundreds of families who have been bereaved can get the answers they need."

Press Association