A West Clare Councillor has apologised to a West Clare family following a recent tragic incident in Loop Head.
Councillor Rita McInerney had issued a press release in relation to the emergency response to a medical incident in the area earlier this month.
In a statement this afternoon she said: “As a Councillor, I wish to issue an unreserved apology to the Crotty family in relation to a previous press release I issued concerning the emergency response to a recent tragic incident in Loop Head.
In my original statement, I raised concerns about delays in the emergency response. However, I now understand, having spoken with the family directly, that this information was incorrect. I have been informed that the ambulance arrived on scene within 20 minutes and that all appropriate emergency services were availed of in a timely and professional manner.”
“I deeply regret the distress and hurt my statement has caused to the Crotty family. It was never my intention to add to their grief or misrepresent the actions taken by our emergency services on that day. I was wrong, and I unreservedly withdraw the assertions made in the earlier release.
I fully acknowledge the professionalism and commitment of the emergency responders who attended the scene, and I commend the swift and dedicated service they provided.
As a public representative, I have a duty to base my advocacy on accurate information, especially when dealing with sensitive and tragic matters. I sincerely apologise to the Crotty family, to the emergency service personnel involved, and to the wider community for the upset caused by my initial comments.
I remain committed to advocating for strong emergency healthcare provision for West Clare, but I will ensure that any such advocacy is informed, respectful, and grounded in verified fact,’ the statement concluded.