The two nuns who died in a swimming accident yesterday evening have been named as Sr Imelda Carew and Sr Paula Buckley of the South East Province of the Presentation Sisters of the Blessed Virgin Mary.
Post mortems will be carried out later today on the bodies.
Sisters Carew and Buckley were swimming at Inch on the Dingle Peninsula at around 7pm when they got into difficulty.
A lifeguard alerted emergency services. The women were then airlifted by the Coast Guard to Kerry General Hospital in a critical condition, but were pronounced dead late last night.
Congregational Leader of the Presentation Sisters Union, Sr Mary Deane, said "We are all stunned and shocked by this tragedy. Words seem inadequate to express our loss and sorrow as we come to terms with the tragic events that unfolded on a beautiful sunny evening."
"It is a tragic loss for all of us and for their families. These two wonderful women have been a source of inspiration and blessing to many people throughout their lives. Our thoughts and prayers are with the families, communities and friends of our beloved Sisters at this time," she added.
Anna Curtin from Radio Kerry has been speaking to some of those involved in the rescue operation:
Originally posted 6:50am
