Fine Gael TD pays tribute to secretary killed in Longford crash

A Fine Gael TD has paid tribute to his “exceptional secretary and loyal friend” who died in a road crash in Co Longford.

Longford/Westmeath representative James Bannon said the death of 55-year-old Bernie Kenny was a tragic loss.

The mother of one sustained fatal injuries when she was struck by a car in Legan village in the early hours of yesterday.

The driver of the vehicle, a man in his 40s, was arrested at the scene.

He has been detained under the provisions of Section 4 of the Criminal Justice Act 1984 at Longford Garda station.

Mr Bannon said he was deeply saddened.

“Her tragic death has come as a terrible shock to all who knew and loved her,” he said

“Bernie worked with me for the last 12 years, since I first entered the Oireachtas. She was not only an extremely loyal employee, but she was also a great source of personal support.

“I have known Bernie all my life; we grew up in the same area, we went to school together and she was a very close personal friend to me over the years.

“I have not only lost an exceptional secretary but a very loyal friend.”

The fatal incident occurred at Legan Village at around 1.30am yesterday. The 55-year-old pedestrian was pronounced dead at the scene and her body was removed to the Midlands Regional Hospital in Mullingar.

The driver of the car, a man in his early 40s, was arrested at the scene but has since been released.

Gardaí are appealing for witnesses to the incident to contact Granard Garda station on 043 6687660, the Garda Confidential Telephone Line 1800 666 111 or any Garda station.