Tributes paid to Cork man (20) who died while on skiing trip in France

A community has rallied behind the family of a young Cork man who lost his life in France last weekend.

Cian O’Brien, 20, from Gleann na Rí, Tower, Co Cork, lost his life while on a skiing trip to the French Alps at the weekend. It is understood he suffered a medical emergency.

It is understood that his friends alerted emergency services after finding him unresponsive. Despite the best efforts of first responders, Mr O'Brien was tragically pronounced dead by a local doctor on Monday January 5th.

Paying tribute, his former GAA coach at Blarney GAA, Richard O’Driscoll, said: "I had the pleasure of coaching Cian at u15/16 at Blarney Gaa. Cian loved being around his teammates no matter the result and developed great friendships through being involved and his loveable personality."

Another neighbour wrote: "Paul, we are so very sorry to hear about Cian’s passing. We remember him as such a lovely, gentle lad when he worked with you on our house last year.

"Our hearts go out to you and your family during this terribly sad and difficult time.’’ 

The Department of Foreign Affairs have confirmed that they are providing consular assistance to the family.

A spokesperson for the Department of Foreign Affairs said: "The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade is aware of this case and is providing consular assistance."

It is understood that Mr O'Brien's family are organising the repatriation of his body to Ireland, with the support of Kevin Bell Repatriation Trust, and funeral details will be announced later.

He is survived by his parents Paul and Sabrina, and sister Lauren. No funeral arrangements have been made as yet.

Cian is a former pupil of Scoil Mhuire gan Smál, Blarney. The school shared photos of the young man's time in the school and their deepest sympathies to the past pupil:

"Scoil Mhuire gan Smál are deeply saddened by the sudden loss of past pupil Cian O’ Brien."

"Cian was a student of SMGS until his graduation in 2023. Cian was a warm, friendly and well-liked student amongst his peers and teachers. He also contributed to many sports teams during his time at SMGS."

"Our sincere condolences to Cian’s parents Paul and Sabrina and his big sister Lauren as well his grandparents and extended family. We are holding you and Cian’s many friends in our thoughts and prayers at this time. Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam."