Tributes have been paid to a man aged in his 50s who lost his life in a tragic collision in Castleknock in Dublin 15.
The accident occurred late last week with the victim named as the husband of local councillor Tania Doyle.
Derek Doyle died after being involved in the collision with a lorry at the junction of College Road and Castleknock village at approximately 4.30 pm on Thursday, December 19.
Mr Doyle’s body was removed from the scene to the mortuary at Connolly Hospital Blanchardstown where it is understood a post-mortem examination took place.
It is believed that Mr Doyle was a previous member of the Defence Forces but had more recently joined Dáil Éireann as a service agent where he worked for several years.
Tributes have poured in for Mr Doyle and his wife, Cllr Tania Doyle LEA, a vocal and well-respected voice in the Dublin 15 area of the city.
Described as a ‘cherished husband’ and ‘truly lovely’ man, several local councillors and local football Club Clonee United have expressed their sympathies to the family on the loss of Mr Doyle.
‘There is great shock and deep sadness in the community following the terrible tragedy that happened in Castleknock Village last Thursday in which a cyclist lost his life,’ said Councillor Ted Leddy. ‘I knew Derek Doyle, he was a truly lovely man. He worked in Leinster House and was husband of my colleague, Independent Councillor Tania Doyle.
‘In time we will analyse the accident and do what we can to improve safety in the village but now is a time for grieving.’
TD Ruth Coppinger said: ‘Was shocked and saddened to hear of the death of Derek Doyle in a road traffic accident this week. Such an appalling tragedy and an unimaginably heartbreaking time for his wife, Cllr Tania Doyle, and his daughter Hazel.
‘I’m sure all the circumstances will be fully investigated, which is for another day, but I want to send my sincere sympathies and that of my colleague Cllr John Burtchaell to Tania and Hazel Doyle and all the family and friends of Derek.’
A spokesperson for Clonee United wrote that the whole club were ‘saddened’ by the news, offering their deepest sympathies to Mr Doyle, his wife Tania and daughter Hazellynn.
‘Clonee Utd would like to offer our deepest sympathies and condolences to Tania Doyle and Hazellynn on the recent passing of their cherished husband and Dad, Derek Doyle.
‘Our whole community is shocked and saddened by the devastating news. Thinking of you both and your extended families at this very sad time.’
While no funeral arrangements have been made for Mr Doyle at this time, it is understood that a candlelit vigil has taken place in a pub local to the Doyle family over the weekend.
The Vigil, organised by the local community, took place on Sunday, December 22, in Myos, Castleknock village, close to where the accident took place.
Gardaí are continuing to appeal for any witnesses to this collision to come forward.
Any road users who may have camera footage, including dash-cam, and were travelling in the Castleknock area at the time are asked to make this footage available to gardaí.
Anyone with any information is asked to contact Blanchardstown Garda Station on 01 666 7000, the Garda Confidential Line on 1800 666 111, or any garda station.
