Dallat: ‘Gerard was loved and respected’

Mr Dallat, who knew Gerry Bradley personally, described him as someone who was ‘loved and respected not only by his own generation but by everyone who came into contact with him.’

The MLA said: “Gerard and his friend were examples of the thousands of young people who have gone to Australia in recent years to seek employment and gain experience of working life.

“I personally know Gerard was loved and respected not only by his own generation but by everyone who came into contact with him.

“He has many relatives and friends throughout the Coleraine area and our deepest sympathy goes to his parents and family who are in shock that such a popular young man and his colleague should lose their young lives, so far from home and in such a tragic way.

“I have no doubt that Irish people in Australia and here at home will rally to the families and give them the love and care they need to deal with this dreadful news so close to Christmas and I join with them at this time in offering prayer and support in any way possible.”