The parish priest of Abbeyleix has died following what's been described as a 'freak accident' involving his car.
Fr John Cummins, who was in his 50s died following the incident earlier at his parochial house.
The exact events around the accident are not yet known, but Gardaí are investigating.
Bishop Denis Nulty announced the death "with deep regret and sadness".
In a statement, he said: "My thoughts and prayers are with Fr John's loving mother, brothers and sister, his priest colleagues throughout the Diocese of Kildare & Leighlin, his team in Faith Development Services and ACCORD, Carlow, and, of course, his many parishioners in Abbeyleix whom he held in his heart so dearly."
He also paid tribute to his former colleagues at the Institute of Technology Carlow, and the parishioners of Carlow Cathedral Parish.
"Fr John was much loved in the diocese and is a tremendous loss to all of us", he added.
Our deepest sympathy to the family of Fr. John Cummins and the people of Abbeyleix. What a loss to our Diocese. Rest In Peace John - your good deeds will accompany you into eternal life. RIP @KANDLEi pic.twitter.com/cpzBz5dEs7
— Portlaoise Parish (@PortlaoiseParis) January 30, 2019
