Athlone Community College is open this morning (Monday) to provide support to those affected by the tragic death of 15-year-old student Martin Greene at Lough Ree on Saturday evening.

Athlone school opens to provide support after 15-year-old student's death

Adrian Cusack

Published: Mon 13 Jul 2026, 10:46 AM

Athlone Community College has opened this morning (Monday) to provide support services to those affected by the tragic death by drowning of 15-year-old student Martin Greene over the weekend.

Cllr Frankie Keena, chair of the school's board of management, said the school is open from 10am to 12 noon this morning (Monday) and he encouraged students and staff bereaved by Martin's passing to come along to the school during this time.

Members of the school’s Critical Incident Management Team, along with professional psychological support services from National Educational Psychological Service (NEPS), will be on-site during these hours.

Cllr Keena said the school would be "open to all students, peers, and staff members who wish to access counselling, speak with a professional, or simply gather together to support one another".

He also extended his "deepest and most heartfelt sympathies to Yvonne, Caroline, John, Peter and the extended Quinn and Greene families" on Martin's "tragic and untimely" passing.

"Martin was a remarkable young man who brought immense life, energy, and joy to the wider community," said Cllr Keena.

"His love for sports and his vibrant personality made him incredibly popular with all his friends and sporting clubs.

"My thoughts, prayers, and full support are with Martin's family, his many friends, and his school community during this unimaginably difficult time. May his gentle soul rest in peace."

In a statement on social media, Athlone Community College said it had been "plunged into profound sadness" by the death of the second year student after he got into difficulty in Lough Ree on Saturday evening.

"Martin was a true gentleman who brought joy to those who were fortunate to know him," said the school. "Martin will always be remembered here in Athlone Community College for the way he played football and the way he lived life.

"Tough as they come, he never gave up on a ball and had a hammer of a left foot. Both on and off the pitch in school, he always had a big grin on his face, and his one-liners could brighten anyone's day.

"He will be deeply missed and fondly remembered by everyone who knew him. Our deepest condolences go to his heartbroken mother, Yvonne, and to all his family and friends," the school's statement added.