Tributes paid to Irish cyclist who died in accident in France

David Young, PA

Tributes have been paid to an Irish man who died in a cycling accident in France.

Niall Kieran, who worked at the Oireachtas in Dublin, was on a cycling holiday in the Pyrenees with his father Gerry when the incident took place at the weekend.

Mr Kieran was a long-time member of both Cycling Ireland and the Orwell Wheelers cycling club, which is based in Dundrum in south Dublin.

Cycling Ireland chief executive officer James Quilligan extended his sympathies to the Kieran family.

“On behalf of Cycling Ireland and the wider cycling community, we would like to express our condolences to Niall’s family and friends,” he said.

President of Orwell Wheelers Joe Fitzpatrick expressed “deep sorrow” at Mr Kieran’s death.

“Niall and his father Gerry were cycling in France,” he said in a statement.

“Those who knew Niall would be aware that he was so looking forward to this trip with his dad. Niall loved every aspect of cycling – weekend spins, racing and the social side. He was well known and loved throughout the club.

“Niall will be sorely missed by all those in the club who knew him. Our thoughts and heartfelt condolences especially go out to Gerry.

“The club extends its deepest sympathies to all the extended Kieran family at this sad time.”

A spokesperson from the Houses of the Oireachtas Service said: “The Houses of the Oireachtas Service is profoundly saddened and shocked to hear of Niall’s untimely and unexpected death.

“We extend our sincere sympathy to his family and to his many friends and colleagues in Leinster House.”

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