Cork man (20) who died while on ski trip in France named locally

A Cork man has died while on a ski trip in France.

The 20-year-old has been named locally as Cian O'Brien, who was from Blarney.

Mr O'Brien, an apprentice electrician, was in the French Alps with the Cork Snow Sports Society, it is understood.

Although many members of the society are students in UCC, it is not affiliated with the university, and not all members are UCC students.

He became ill in the French resort and died over the weekend.

The young man was from the Tower area of Blarney, and he played soccer with his local football club, local sources say.

He was described as a popular young man whose family are highly respected locally and who are deeply embedded in the community.

Cian is described as the darling son of Paul and Sabrina (nee Ryall) and loving brother of Lauren. Beloved grandson of Tim and Cora Ryall and Irene and the late Derek O’Brien and loving great grandson of the late Nora Ryall.

He is sadly missed by his heartbroken parents, sister, grandparents, auntie Ciara, uncle Edward, aunts Norma and Sinead, uncles Sean and Alan, cousins, his many friends especially Luke, Joey, Pod, Tadgh, Cathal, Ted and Sean, relatives and neighbours.

Efforts are underway to bring his body back home.

Local Fine Gael councillor Damian Boylan said that the community was in shock after hearing about the tragedy.

“It is every parent’s worst nightmare for something to happen to their child. My deepest sympathies are with his family,” Mr Boylan said.

The Department of Foreign Affairs confirmed it is aware of the case and is providing consular assistance.