RIP.
Garda Kevin Flatley sadly died due to injuries suffered after he was knocked down by a motorcycle while operating a speed checkpoint in Dublin yesterday.
A service will be held at Dublin Castle this evening for the father-of-two, which will be attended by Garda Commissioner Drew Harris.
He has been described by colleagues as an ‘all-round sound gentleman’, a ‘cherished colleague’ and a ‘great friend’.
O’Dwyer’s GAA in Balbriggan, where Garda Flatley coached his daughter’s Under-10s side, also paid a touching tribute.
Speaking with RTÉ, Chairperson David Rooney said: “I got to know Kevin more recently in the last two to three years when he started coaching with his daughter’s team, the Under-10 girls.
“A very passionate man, always willing to help out where he could and balance the work life, balance it with the Gards and his family commitments.
“But he was the type of fella that would always put his hand up to help.
“A couple of examples would be, we did a fundraiser last year where we had to do a bit of dancing and when some of the coaches were kind of making fools of themselves dancing, Kevin was managing and supervising the kids.
“I know the the Under-10 girls have a real love for him and he was so good with them and it’s a big loss for that group in particular.”
Speaking on Morning Ireland, Rooney added: “He was always a pleasure to chat to, and his grá for GAA and helping others shone through in every conversation. He was a dedicated coach with our Under-10s girls team, encouraging the players at all times and bringing great energy.
“He was always positive around the club, positive influence and always smiling, had a fantastic way about him within the club, and he was always willing to lend a hand and helped where he could.”
