Search continues for missing woman as funeral takes place for drowning victim Johnny Duhan

The search for a woman who went missing while swimming off the coast of Galway has entered its fourth day.

Search and rescue services launched a major operation on Tuesday morning when alerted to concerns a local man was missing after going for a swim at Silverstrand Beach, Barna, Co Galway.

Hours later, gardaí received a report that another person, a local woman in her 30s, was also feared missing having gone for a swim in the same spot after she failed to turn up for work.

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The body of the man was since recovered and was named as well-known singer and songwriter Johnny Duhan (74).

Mr Duhan from Barna was found in waters off Rusheen Bay on Tuesday afternoon by RNLI and taken to Galway University Hospital.

Taoiseach Simon Harris has led tributes to Mr Duhan, 74, who had written songs recorded by artists such as Christy Moore, The Dubliners and Mary Black.

Mr Duhan had also recorded a number of albums as singer himself.

A death notice for Mr Duhan said he died while taking his daily swim in Galway Bay.

The notice said he is survived by his wife Maureen and their five children and 10 grandchildren, siblings and extended family.

Mr Duhan was originally from Limerick but had lived in Galway for many years.

In a social media post, Mr Harris said it was “terribly sad news tonight from Galway”.

He added: “Johnny Duhan was a renowned and much loved songwriter. Thinking of his family and loved ones at this very sad time. The young woman who is still missing remains in our thoughts tonight.”

His funeral took place today, where was remembered as a kind and talented man.

The family informed well-wishers that the house will be private at all times, and requested that donations can be sent to RNLI and NRH in lieu of flowers.

The search continues for the missing woman today. Gardaí believe both swimmers arrived separately to the beach and were not known to each other.

Sea conditions at the time on Tuesday were calm but sources say visibility due to dense fog was extremely poor.