The Irish Aviation Authority has launched an investigation into the use of a drone near the scene of Friday’s fatal crash in Clonmel.
It comes amid anger from local people and concerns that it could have hindered the emergency operation that was underway at the time.
The IAA says the use of the drone was ‘an invasion of privacy and posed a flight safety risk’.
In a statement issued overnight, it said the activity is in direct contravention of drone regulations, adding that remote pilots and drone operators are required by European regulation to avoid areas where an emergency response effort is ongoing.
The authority says this is ‘safety critical’ as it could hinder possible aerial support.
It says it’s maintaining contact with Gardai on the matter, with a Garda investigation into the crash still underway.
It also expressed its deepest sympathies to the families and friends of the four young people who died in the tragic accident.
Meanwhile, the first of the funerals for the four young people have been announced for Thursday and Friday and books of condolence have been opened in the town.
Nicole Murphy will be buried on Thursday following funeral mass at midday at St John the Baptist Church in her native Kilcash.
The funeral for Grace McSweeney and her brother Luke will be held at 11.30 am on Friday at St Peter and Paul’s Church in Clonmel town.
Zoey Coffey’s funeral mass will take place on Saturday.
