"The boating accident was an unspeakable tragedy that has affected the lives of many wonderful people," said Msgr Charles Kosanke, who survived the tragedy.

"The pastoral councils on both islands are vital to the life of the parish. In many ways they are an example of what we are now trying to do on the mainland – lay-led ministry." – Fr Patrick Burke

Up to 15,000 pilgrims visit Lough Derg every year (mainly from May to September) and this has been steady for the last number of years.