Karen Buckley: Irish government ‘greatly saddened’ for family

The Irish government has expressed its sympathy for the family of student Karen Buckley after a body was found in the search for the missing student.

Her mother and father arrived in Scotland earlier this week to appeal for her safe return, but now face the news they feared the most.

Ireland’s minister for foreign affairs Charlie Flanagan said thoughts and prayers were with the Buckleys.

“I am greatly saddened by the news emerging that Scottish police believe that a body discovered near Glasgow may be that of Karen Buckley,” he said.

“All of our thoughts and prayers are with Karen’s parents, John and Marian, and with all of her family and friends at this tragic time.

“On behalf of the government, I wish to express appreciation for all that has been done by the Scottish authorities, and especially Police Scotland in Glasgow, to find Karen and to support the Buckley family throughout this very difficult time.”

Consular staff have been helping the family since her disappearance. Sean Sherlock, a junior minister from the Cork area, added: “My thoughts and prayers are with the family and friends of Karen in Mourneabbey, Cork, Glasgow and throughout the world.”