Updated at 6.37pm
BOOKS OF CONDOLENCE for Anthony Foley will be opened at the offices of seven Munster councils today, following the untimely death of the province’s head coach.
The former Ireland international died overnight on Saturday ahead of the province’s Champions Cup clash with Racing 92 in Paris.
He was aged just 42.
Paying tribute, President Michael D Higgins described Foley as someone who was “regarded with great respect and deep affection not just among the Munster rugby fans but by all those interested in Irish sports and those with whom they interacted abroad”.
Books of condolence will be opened from today at:
An online book of condolences has also been opened by Limerick City and County Council. People can leave their names and messages of tribute on the site here. A book will also be opened at the University of Limerick Sport Arena.
Thomond Park’s book will remain open until 8pm “in an effort to facilitate as many supporters as possible,” Munster Rugby has said.
At Irish Independent Park (Musgrave Park) in Cork a condolence book will be open at the reception of the Munster Rugby offices, located at the Tramore Road entrance.
In Dublin, the IRFU has confirmed that the doors of its offices on Lansdowne Road will be open for fans who wish to sign its book of condolences. As of this morning, Dublin City Council has no plans to open its own book, a spokesperson said.
Munster fans paid a poignant tribute to Foley outside Stade-Yves-du-Manoir, after the scheduled clash with the French side was called off.
The supporters also left flags, jerseys and other mementos outside the venue.
Here at home, tributes were also left at Thomond Park, where supporters queued from yesterday afternoon to sign the book of condolence.
Sports Minister Shane Ross, speaking on Morning Ireland today, said his Department would provide whatever support Anthony Foley’s family needed.
He added:
I would urge everybody around Munster to sign the books of condolence as an expression of grief and respect for a man who did so much for his country and for Irish sport.
Note: This post will be updated throughout the day with locations of books of condolence at other clubs and councils. Details can be sent to tips@thejournal.ie
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