Heartbroken pals' emotional funeral tribute to ‘hilarious best friend' as teen who drowned in swim tragedy laid to rest
Peter Byrne, 17, was swimming in the River Barrow in Co
2
Peter Byrne sadly passed away following a swimming tragedy last week
Credit: RIP.ie
2
The 17-year-old was with two pals when the accident took place
Credit: SOCIAL MEDIA COLLECT
Peter, who had just finished Transition Year in the local CBS secondary
, and his pals were at a local gym earlier in the evening
before they decided to go swimming in the Milford area.
It is understood a friend saw him get into difficulty and rushed to try and help him.
The alarm was raised at 6:30pm on Tuesday and emergency services commenced a search for the teenager before it was stood down a number of hours later after the discovery of a body.
Peter was remembered as the "beloved son" of Antoinette and Stephen, step-son of Dermot, "much-loved" brother of Margeret, Kellie-Anna, Erin, Scott and his twin brother Quintan.
READ MORE IRISH NEWS
Mourners, including school children wearing t-shirts with a picture of Peter's face, lined the pews of the packed Cathedral as the young
Peter's school friends from St Mary's Academy CBS in Carlow Town today told his funeral mass that the memories they made with their pal "will last with me forever".
One described the youngster as "genuinely hilarious".
He said: "I don't believe that today should be a day of sadness, as Peter never really showed off being upset to anyone. If anything, he'd be angry and then smile 20 seconds later.
Most read in Irish News
"The amount of memories I have of Peter couldn't be written down with all the ink in the world. As for the bad, it could be written down as good, because they were all laughed over seconds later or sorted with a game of FIFA.
School principal pays touching tribute to teen who died in Meath swimming tragedy
"In the CBS, for the time he was in it, it had to be the funniest moments of my life. I have a lot of love for you, brother, till we meet again."
Another pal described Peter as his "best friend" and "brother".
He said: "Losing you feels like I lost a part of myself. I will cherish every memory we have together.
"Your beautiful smile could enlighten anybody's day. No matter what mood you were in, you would always stay smiling. Our memories will last a lifetime.
"Our games of pool and Brennan's turned into our own competition.
You would never let me get the better of you.
"When I first moved to CBS, you made me feel welcome and showed me around."
'CARED FOR EVERYBODY'
Sharing some of his favourite memories, Peter's friend told how they will "last with me forever".
He added: "Goodbye for now, but not forever until we meet again, my brother."
Peter's uncle Bert told how the youngster "loved to mess and dance", play football and "was so proud to put on the jersey for his football team New Oak FC.
The 17-year-old also cared greatly about his style and appearance, with Peter's uncle telling how he was "non-stop brushing his hair and teeth".
Bert told mourners: "Even when power washing for nanny or helping Dermot in the garage, he would be wearing his best on clothes or Montirex tracksuits.
"Before leaving the house every day, he would regularly shout, 'hey Ma, hey Dermot, have you got €2 for the bus?' - knowing full well it was probably for a can of Monster.
"He would often text Nanny for a few bob for a four in one with satay sauce, which was his favourite.
"He cared for everybody, his mam, his dad, his nanny, his grandad, Dermot, his brothers Scott and Quintan, his sisters Kellie-Anna, Erin and Mag, his nephew, his niece, his aunts and uncles and his cousins.
'LOVE WILL NEVER FADE'
"But especially for his twin, Quinny.
"Even when they were newborns, they would only settle when placed next to each other in their incubators. They shared a special bond like no other.
"Peter would often appear in everyone's houses like a gust of wind and be gone again in a flash but never empty handed. He'd normally leave with a drink or something to eat.
"We all loved you so much Peter and that love will never fade."
Bert also extended thanks to Peter's friends and family for their kindness and generosity during this period of mourning.
He gave a special mention to Mark Carpenter and the emergency services for all they did on the day of the tragic incident, adding "it means more to us than anyone will ever know".
Bert added: "If love could have saved you Peter, you would have lived forever".
Pals brought gifts that represented Peter's life to the altar before the mass started today.
The items included a pool cue, representing the teenagers love of pool, his "man bag" and his football jersey, depicting Peter's dedication to his local soccer club New Oak FC, which he played for.
Peter's family has asked that any donations, if desired, go to Irish Water Safety.
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Irish Examiner
a day ago
- Irish Examiner
Colin Sheridan: Stephen Colbert's axing brings to mind the lack of political satire here
To most of us this side of the pond, Stephen Colbert exists as a series of funny clips on social media. Unless you live, or travel regularly to America, it's unlikely his show — The Late Show with Stephen Colbert — is a regular part of your televisual lexicon, especially as it airs at 11.35pm. Still, for all the obscurity of his existence relative to us, one could argue he's never been as popular. President Donald Trump is the gift that never stops giving to monologue makers, and if there's one thing Colbert can deliver with panache, it's a damn good monologue. Perhaps, too good, because his nightly shrine to shot glasses of satire and political punch‑drunk comedy has been abolished. CBS, citing financial woes, has slated the final curtain for May 2026, closing not just Colbert's show but the entire Late Show franchise. It's the end of an era. Since Letterman passed the torch in 2015, Colbert has used that stage as part-sarcastic political commentator, part-sky-high comic helmsman. In the last season alone, he reigned as ratings champ among late‑night talkies, improbably packing more audience than over‑caffeinated hours warrant. So yes, it may have been a 'purely financial' choice, as CBS insists. But that phrase feels about as believable now as our own government saying they intend to pass the Occupied Territories Bill. It comes just after Colbert's attack on a Trump‑Paramount $16 million 'bribe' just days before the axe fell — timing that smells less like coincidence and more like political orchestration. Fellow comic gladiators rushed to his defence. Jon Stewart roared on The Daily Show: 'This is not the moment to give in … you are fucking wrong,' decrying corporate fear over political reprisals. John Oliver lamented the loss of a fertile training ground for future late‑night scribes, calling it 'incredibly sad". What will it mean for our own Late Late Show? For decades, it's been a cross‑population of small‑town sentiment, big‑city celebrity sycophancy, and hushed confessions over talk of tragedies, triumphs, and teddy bears. And every so often it even platforms a proper comedian, albeit one who knows better than to mock a sitting TD. And it's in that vacuum we could all do with a little Colbert. There is little or no political satire on Irish television these days - and doing mediocre impressions does not count. Host Patrick Kielty is a fireman reduced to rescuing kittens from a tree, and it's perhaps because of that that the Late Late Show is weathering whatever storm downed Colbert in the US. Its appeal may lean more cosy than cutting, but the crowds still tune in. Still, you can't help wondering: does Colbert's demise signal the death of the late-night format, or merely the flick‑off of an old lamp? Patrick Kielty's Late Late Show stands as a testament to bland adaptability. File picture: Andres Poveda Streaming platforms, TikTok, 24‑hour news cycles — they're all wedding their viewers to the immediacy of media, stealing them away from the half‑hour a night in front of the TV. CBS isn't the only network hitting budgetary bottom, though it's certainly first to pitch out the stage talent. Even NBC's stalwarts are trimming staff and band members. Attitudes and ad revenue are shifting, fast. But here's the irony: late-night talk shows are vital national psychotherapies. A place where politicians are cut into satire, pop stars unfurl their latest single, and comedians sharpen their wit against the absurd. The loss of Colbert's show leaves a hole — one that's political, comic, and uncomfortably silent. In contrast, The Late Late Show stands as a testament to bland adaptability. It's become more relatable because of, not despite, its softer profile. When guests spill their innermost thoughts or confess shame over missed anniversaries, we nod along, waiting for the former weather girl to tell us how stressful she found Dancing with the Stars. There is little or nothing revolutionary about the formula. RTÉ can point to the Tommy Tiernan Show as a totem of brave programming, but, despite the quality differential, you can be damn sure which darling they'd kill first if given a choice. Which is why the American axing is unlikely to trouble Kielty and co just yet, largely because the Late Late acts like an art project. A loss leader, less about the shining host, more about the cultural heartbeat it captures. Colbert's exit, counterintuitively, does amplify the dearth of political criticism in Ireland, however. How can a nation of storytellers and general smart arses not produce one hour-long piece of satire per week, especially when there has never been more material with which to humorously work? I think I know the answer. And it might be much closer to Trump's America than we like to admit — the politicians would never allow it.
RTÉ News
3 days ago
- RTÉ News
Exploring the luxury hotels, restaurants and shops of Vietnam
Vietnam has changed a lot over the last 10 years, PA journalist Yolanthe Fawehinmi finds out. "Hi, please can I have a conversation with you?" asks a 12-year-old Vietnamese boy named Peter, along with his younger brother Ethan, as I squeeze my way through a dense crowd of people in Hội An, the charming, well-preserved ancient town in central Vietnam. The pair started learning how to speak English six months ago and were keen to practise with foreign travellers seeking a combination of comfort, culture and adventure. Before we are interrupted by the pervasive motorcycle culture – forcing both locals and tourists to be street smart – Peter and I exchange a few basic questions and answers in English, as his father beams with pride from across the street. As I pass market stalls selling fresh fruit, vegetables, electric fans, phone accessories, lanterns, knock-off designer clothes and bags, and painted coconut shells, I make the mistake of catching the eye of a business-savvy Vietnamese woman who lures me over and asks me if I want to buy any of the jewellery and trinkets she has made. Hội An is also renowned for its tailoring industry, offering a wide range of custom-made clothing at affordable prices. Yaly Couture was founded by 51-year-old Quynh Trinh, and has since become the place where locals and tourists visit to get their bespoke tailoring done quickly – sometimes as little as three hours, thanks to her 486 members of staff – and at traditional value. Celebrity fans apparently include TV presenter Jeremy Clarkson, 65 – who Trinh says "ran laps around her shop" due to his excitement – and musician Mick Jagger, 82. I decide to have a Vietnamese-inspired navy blue linen two-piece sleeveless top and trouser set made, and Trinh gifts me with a bronze half-neck keyhole maxi dress inspired by one I found on TikTok. I'm assigned to one of her members of staff, who takes all of my measurements, helps me pick out appropriate material, arranges a fitting and makes both of my designs in less than 24 hours. There is still so much to do in Hội An. So to better understand the original ways of Vietnamese tribal culture, I am also transported to their enchanting world at Hội An Lune Center for the Performing Arts with a production of Teh Dar – one of the Vietnamese Bamboo Circus performances of Lune Production. During the performance, guests hear songs that have been sung deep in the forests and whispered around tribal flames for generations. It's also a great opportunity to hear how a buffalo horn sounds with other percussion instruments. Later, after a boat ride down the river, illuminated at night by hundreds of floating lanterns, I have a heartwarming five-course meal, which is gluten-free friendly, at the newly opened La Table Hội An restaurant, where French culinary tradition meets the soul of Vietnam. On my evening stroll, I'm also able to admire the unique architectural structure of the infamous Japanese Bridge, and understand the influence it has on the bridge that also features at Banyan Tree Lăng Cô. Over many years, Vietnam has built a strong reputation for being a backpacker's dream destination. But whilst spending time in Hội An, and at Angsana Lăng Cô and Banyan Tree Lăng Cô, both part of the Laguna Lăng Cô integrated resort, I'm certain it has more to offer. The resorts feature the 18-hole Laguna Golf Lăng Cô, designed by the legendary Sir Nick Faldo, and offers convenient access to all shared facilities and centralised services, including Terra Kids Club and Laguna Water Sports Centre. Banyan Tree Lăng Cô is dedicated to quiet luxury and creating intimate and romantic experiences for couples, and Angsana Lăng Cô is a 220-room safe haven for all of the family to enjoy. The first night at Angsana Lăng Cô set the tone of my time in Vietnam. I'm welcomed with a BBQ dinner party on the private beach – there is no private beach in Vietnam, but it's private at the resort – where all the seafood is sourced directly from the local Cù Dù fishing village, also known as Cua Van in Ha Long Bay. Cù Dù is a unique floating village where residents live in traditional houses on boats and rafts, making a living from fishing and aquaculture. I'm offered a glimpse into the local culture and the stunning natural beauty of the bay, whilst eating everything from lobster, oysters – which were cooked because of pesticides – squid, fish, and papaya salad with shrimp, just to name a few dishes. During a tour of both resorts, it is easy to see how much of the architecture is inspired by local culture. At Angsana Lăng Cô, I stay in the beach suite, which feels like a home away from home. There's a living room and dining area, and access to a private pool with timber deck sun loungers, a kitchenette and a separate bedroom. Every half an hour, from 8am, a Vietnamese-inspired boat takes you on a 10-minute journey down a fairy garden to Banyan Tree Lăng Cô. And at the entrance, there is a traditional cong used to welcome me and other guests. Banyan Tree Lăng Cô – where I end my stay – is where I experience the serenity of the beach pool villa – only a few minutes from the private beach. I have my own private infinity pool with a heated jacuzzi, a timber sun deck and a poolside sala pavilion, so I can truly relax. Indoors, in both rooms, there's a king-sized bed, bath and shower and other modern amenities. Vietnam has changed a lot over the last 10 years, both politically and economically. The commitment the country has to preserve its natural beauty is why older travellers deserve to experience it, too, not just student backpackers.
RTÉ News
3 days ago
- RTÉ News
On This Week: Rolling Stones play in second ever Slane Castle concert
On This Week: Irish Moments from History (21st - 27th July) Welcome to On This Week, where we delve into the standout stories from the years gone by, featuring standout news stories, major sporting events, and pop culture highlights that helped shape Irish life. Here's your dose of Irish nostalgia from 21st - 27th July. This Week In Irish News Dublin's first electrified train system was opened between Bray and Howth. The Dublin Area Rapid Transit (DART) began public services on 23 July 1984 and was later officially opened by Taoiseach Garret Fitzgerlad in October of that year. The service would see greater expansion over the years, running to Greystones, Malahide and more. 2009: IKEA opens its doors in Ballymun Shoppers queued up overnight to be the first ones to enter the first IKEA store in the Republic of Ireland. Before the grand opening, the queue itself was dotted with references to Sweden, from the flag painted on faces to the Swedish Chef from The Muppets. A traditional IKEA log-cutting ceremony marked the final countdown to the store's opening, and it was estimated that up to 10,000 people visited the store on its first day. This Week In Irish Sports 1998: Ireland U18s win European Championship The Republic of Ireland squad became Under 18 European Champions after beating Germany in a penalty shootout. Ireland won the shootout by four goals to three, marking the second European Championship win for the country that year. It had already won the UEFA Under-16 title eleven weeks earlier. The squad featured many future Irish international stars, including Robbie Keane, Richard Dunne, and Gary Doherty. It was managed by Brian Kerr, who would later go on to manage the men's international team. 2008: Pardraig Harrington does the double Padraig Harrington joined an exclusive club of golf players after winning the British Open for the second year in a row. He became the first European in over a century to retain the Open Championship following his victory at Royal Birkdale. He finished the tournament on three over par, four shots ahead of second-place Ian Poulter. This Week In Irish Entertainment More than 70,000 fans descended to Slane Castle to see The Rolling Stones play in one of the biggest concerts ever staged in Ireland. Hundreds of balloons were released into the air as the Rolling Stones opened their set with 'Under My Thumb' with fans cheering on Mick Jagger, Keith Richards, Ron Wood, Billy Wyman and Charlie Watts. It was the second concert to be held at the venue in Slane, Co Meath, and saw The J Geils Band, The Chieftains, and George Thorogood and the Destroyers as support acts. This Week In Irish Culture Ulysses was voted the finest English language novel published in the 20th century by a jury of scholars and writers. The book took the top spot in a list of 100 novels drawn up by the editorial board of Modern Library, which is now part of Random House. It was followed by The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald, 'A Portrait of the Artist as a Young Man' another Joyce novel and 'Lolita' by Vladimir Nabokov. What was Number 1 in Ireland This Week? 1982: 'Fame' by Irene Cara The iconic song was re-released to mark the Fame TV series and topped the charts in multiple countries 1999: 'Living la Vida Loca' by Ricky Martin 'Living la Vida Loca' became Martin's biggest hit and is one of the best selling singles of all time. 2012: 'Spectrum (Say My Name)' by Florence and the Machine by Artist The remix of the album version of Spectrum became the group's first single to peak at number one on the UK singles chart, and reached number one in Ireland and Scotland. Irish Celebrities Celebrating Birthdays This Week Sarah Greene (41) Actor and singer best known for Penny Dreadful, and Bad Sisters Steve Collins (61) Former professional boxer who held the WBO middleweight and super-middleweight titles simultaneously Rhys McClenaghan (26) Artistic gymnast from Northern Ireland who is the pommel horse Olympic champion Other Irish Trivia From This Week 1969: The Cat of The Year show held in Dublin Cat lovers visited the Mansion House in Dublin to see the best felines in the country as part of the Cat of the Year competition. Organised by the Siamese Cat Club of Ireland, the show was held under the rules of the Governing Council of the Cat Fancy of Ireland. All cats and kittens could compete in the show, from pedigree cats to household pets, where non-pedigrees were judged on good health and temperament. Looking Ahead Each Monday, On This Week will bring you a mix of stories from the last 75 years, to celebrate Volkswagen's 75 year anniversary, featuring the big news stories, sporting highlights and major pop culture moments. Volkswagen has been part of those unforgettable moments - driving families to milestones, memories, and moments that matter. Join us every week as we look back at the moments of yesteryear.
