The Daily Star Ireland
The funeral of Garda Kevin Flatley was held at St Peter and Paul’s Church in Balbriggan, where mourners gathered to honour a man remembered for his dedication to public service, deep love for his family, and commitment to community life. Garda Flatley, aged 49, lost his life last Sunday after being struck by a motorcycle while conducting a roadside speed check.
Among those in attendance were Ireland’s President Michael D. Higgins, Taoiseach Micheál Martin, Tánaiste Simon Harris, and representatives from across the political spectrum. The service also included prayers for the motorcyclist involved in the incident, who sustained serious injuries.
Honouring a Dedicated Public Servant
During the service, Fr Dan Joe O’Mahony reflected on Garda Flatley’s selfless contribution to public safety, noting that he died while serving the State. Emphasizing the importance of road safety, he called on those present to be more mindful and respectful while driving — values that Garda Flatley consistently upheld.
The priest spoke of the dangers of road rage and encouraged people to treat others with the same kindness and fairness that Garda Flatley exemplified. Symbols brought to the altar reflected his diverse interests and values — a GAA jersey, a hurl, a fiddle, books, a family bible, and a chocolate bar — offering a portrait of a man who embraced life fully.
Fr Richard Sheehy, Episcopal Vicar for Dublin, also paid tribute, stating that Garda Flatley gave his life in service of the community, highlighting the inherent risks faced by those in uniform.
A Life Shaped by Family, Friendship, and Purpose
A heartfelt tribute was delivered by Garda Rosanna Caul, a colleague and family representative, who painted a vivid picture of Garda Flatley’s personal and professional life. She described him as a devoted family man, whose sudden loss has left his wife Una and their two daughters deeply bereaved.
Garda Caul recounted that Kevin was originally from Newcastle, County Dublin, where he grew up with his parents Michael and Breda, his brother John, and his sister Elaine, whose passing in 2014 left a lasting mark on him. He remained committed to honouring her memory, and it was noted that in death, they are now reunited.
She spoke of Kevin’s early years in policing, beginning his career in Pearse Street in 1998, and later transferring to Blanchardstown in 2002. He quickly became a respected member of both units, known for his integrity and supportiveness.
Garda Flatley had long aspired to join the Roads Policing Unit, a goal he achieved in 2018. He later completed the motorcycle training course — an accomplishment that brought him great satisfaction. His colleagues, who formed a close-knit community over the years, are now mourning the loss of a man who was more than a teammate — he was family.
Community Leader and Passionate Volunteer
Beyond policing, Garda Flatley gave generously to his community. From supporting the Special Olympics to contributing to the Fingal Triathlon Club and O’Dwyers GAA, he was always the first to volunteer. He believed deeply in helping others and fostered a spirit of inclusivity and effort in every activity he undertook.
He was an avid athlete, having completed numerous triathlons, including a Half Ironman. His passion for sport carried into his coaching at O’Dwyers, particularly with his daughters’ underage teams. He cared more about participation and community than competition and always focused on enjoyment and team spirit.
Music also played a significant role in his life. Whether traditional Irish or heavy metal, Kevin loved learning new songs and instruments and passed this passion onto his daughters. He was also known for his dancing — a trait fondly recalled by those who had the joy of spinning with him on the dance floor.
He had a strong love for Irish language and culture, taking classes to deepen his knowledge of Gaeilge, further reflecting his pride in heritage and continuous learning.
An Enduring Legacy of Kindness and Courage
As the funeral came to a close, Garda Caul expressed gratitude on behalf of the family to everyone who assisted Kevin on the day of the accident and to those who have supported the family in the days since. She particularly acknowledged the unwavering support of An Garda Síochána.
She concluded by affirming that Garda Flatley’s memory will always remain alive in the hearts of his family, friends, and community. Draped in the colours of O’Dwyers GAA — where he had coached under-10s — and in keeping with his love for the Irish language, Kevin’s coffin was carried from the church to the traditional Irish tune ‘The Parting Glass’.
A final escort by his Roads Policing colleagues accompanied Garda Flatley and his family to a private burial in his hometown of Newcastle, Co. Dublin, marking the end of a life devoted to public service, family love, and community dedication.
