An Irish couple on holiday in China have been killed in a crash in Beijing, the Department of Foreign Affairs confirmed this afternoon.
Fintan McCarthy, a Green Party councillor, and his girlfriend Sonya Rabbitte were both in their 30s.
A Dutch man also died in the crash involving a lorry and a minibus bringing tourists to Miyun from where the Great Wall of China can be seen.
The crash reportedly happened around 1.25am Irish time at a crossroads in the Shunyi district of the Chinese capital.
Cement drainage pipes reportedly fell off the heavy-duty lorry on to the rear of the minibus, killing the three tourists instantly.
The minibus had seven foreign tourists on board. One other sustained slight injuries.
The Department of Foreign Affairs have made contact with the families of both victims in Ireland.
Mr McCarthy was a Green Party member of South Dublin County Council.
Party Leader Trevor Sargent said the Party was shocked and devastated by the news. "Fintan McCarthy was the most decent, hard-working guy anyone could ever meet. My heart goes out to the families of both Fintan and his girlfriend Sonia Rabbitte, their many close friends and especially Fintan's best friend Paul Gogarty TD.
"In the face of this inexplicable tragedy, the Green Party like a family, grieves the loss of a great friend and public representative."
Progressive Democrats leader Mary Harney tonight expressed her sympathy to the family of Mr McCarthy.
She said: "Fintan McCarthy was extremely committed to Lucan and much-admired by all who came into contact with him in the course of his extensive work in the community.