Water safety chief issues urgent appeal in wake of recent swimming tragedies
Water Safety Ireland is urging the public to exercise increased caution around water after the tragic drowning of a sixth teenager in as many week.
Deputy CEO Roger Sweeney said: 'We urge everyone – parents, carers, communities, and individuals – to talk about water safety before you even leave the house, especially during warm weather when more people are drawn to the water.
'When you bring children or friends to a waterway, take a moment to visualise drawing an imaginary line on the ground, a clear boundary that must not be crossed until you've assessed the risks and had a real conversation about safety.
'Once there, swim within your depth, stay within your depth and don't take your eyes off children — not even for a second. They need constant, uninterrupted adult supervision. That means active watching — not just being nearby.
"Talk to them about the importance of lifesaving equipment like ringbuoys — and why it's crucial never to tamper with or misuse them. These are small actions — but they can make the biggest difference.'
Kofi Owusu was the sixth drowning victim of someone under 18 in six weeks.
The 15-year old was swimming in the River Nanny at Laytown, Co Meath, when he got into difficulties underneath a footbridge.
He was with a group of other boys playing in the water but it is believed he was carried away by a strong current and became submerged.
The alarm was raised by a member of the public around 6.15pm on Friday and a search and rescue operation was launched within minutes. His body was discovered in the river shortly after 9.30pm.
Kofi, who had been living in the Blackrock area of Dundalk in Co Louth, had recently finished his Junior Cert exams and was among a group of teenagers who had gone to the seaside town of Laytown for the day.
He was also a talented basketball player, part of the Coláiste Chu Chulainn squad from Dundalk which reached the All-Ireland Cup 'B' U-16 final last year.
The area of the river where the teen drowned is tidal with strong swirling currents making it dangerous even for strong swimmers.
Local Labour TD Ged Nash told the Sunday Mirror that the young man's death was a 'dreadful tragedy'.
He added: 'This is a dreadful tragedy and an indescribable loss to the young man's family and friends.
'My heart goes out to Kofi's family, his friends and all of those who witnessed Friday evening's terrible tragedy. The community thanks the emergency services and local volunteers for their actions.
'I want to appeal to everyone who wants to enjoy the water to do so safely and to take all of the necessary precautions and safety advice.'
After the alarm was raised, the Dublin-based Irish Coast Guard Rescue 116 helicopter was overhead within 25 minutes and the Drogheda Coast Guard Unit was launched.
Kofi's body was taken to Our Lady's Hospital in Navan, where a post-mortem was due to be carried out.
Local Fine Gael councillor Sharon Tolan, who lives in the area, said a dark cloud is hanging over the community.
She said: 'My thoughts and prayers are with everyone affected by the tragic accident in Laytown.
'Please think long and hard before posting any commentary on any social media pages.' Independent Meath County Councillor Carol Lennon described the drowning as a 'devastating tragedy' and thanked those involved in the search operation.
She said: 'The loss of life in tragic circumstances is devastating, and we want to offer our sincere condolences to the families.
'What started as a great summer's day ended with the loss of a young life.'
Tributes poured in yesterday for the popular schoolboy who was described as an all round sports star.
Redeemer Celtic in Dundalk placed Kofi's number six shirt in the centre circle of their pitch along with a wreath in tribute to their deceased player.
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