Bishop calls M9 crash a 'tough day for Carlow and wider area' as five teenagers die; urges drivers to 'go easier' and families to grieve

Bishop Denis Nulty expressed deep sorrow over the tragic M9 crash that resulted in the deaths of five teenagers, calling it a "very tough day for Carlow and the wider area." He emphasized the importance of a vigil held in Graiguecullen for the families affected, stating it is "hugely important" for community solidarity.⁴

Nulty urged drivers to "go easier" on the roads, highlighting a growing concern over reckless driving. He remarked, "Every listener to Morning Ireland driving needs to go easier, go handier. We must hold ourselves to a higher standard. This is getting worse."

The Bishop acknowledged the anger surrounding the incident but called for a moment of reflection, saying, "I share that widespread revulsion, upset and anger. But I think we also need to pause." He cautioned against the potential harm of careless language in discussing the tragedy, stating, "Words can wound, but words can also heal."

Nulty also pointed out the societal implications of the crash, urging the public to consider the broader context rather than viewing it as an isolated incident. He said, "It's all of us," stressing the need for collective responsibility in preventing such tragedies in the future.

As the community mourns, he reminded everyone to allow families the time they need to grieve, saying, "There are heartbroken families who need time to grieve."³