HUNDREDS of tearful mourners said a final farewell to an entire family killed in a horrific murder-suicide carried out by the teacher father who was ‘under pressure’ at work.
Alan Hawe stabbed his wife Clodagh to death before killing their three sons Liam, 13, Niall, 11 and six-year-old Ryan in their bedrooms at the family home in rural Ireland.
The 41-year-old then hanged himself, leaving several notes including one that said his family would not be able to cope without him.
The family were laid to rest together at the church’s adjoining cemetery following the service.
Mourners bowed their heads as one of the children’s coffins was taken into St Mary’s Church in Castlerahan, Co Cavan, where the funeral took place.
Men, women children, some in school uniforms, wiped away tears as the coffins passed.
In his homily at the service, Father Felim Kelly said: “How such goodness could be destroyed? How such happiness could be invaded?
“How? Why? It is not for us to seek answers or to surmise about behaviour.
“We are all trying to cope with a tragedy beyond our understanding.”
A donation box was opened at the church to Pieta House, one of Ireland’s leading suicide charities.
Seating inside the small Catholic church was reserved for family and close friends but the service was broadcast on a loudspeaker to the crowds outside.
Mr Hawe was originally from the county and was deputy principal at Castlerahan National School, near where the family lived at Ballyjamesduff, Co Cavan.
His wife grew up in Mount Nugent, Co Cavan, and she taught at Oristown National School in Co Meath.
“The family played an amazing part in the life of their school as teachers, held in the highest regard by colleagues, parents and children, respectful of all in their care and so co-operative in every possible way,” Fr Kelly said.
“The children, gifted pupils, team players, budding leaders, warm friends. What a loss.”
Mourners were also given a glimpse at happier times in the Hawe family as the priest recalled one Christmas visit.
He said: “I know I was calling to see close friends and knew the welcome.
This is the heartbreaking final picture of the Hawe family before tragic murder-suicide
“Clodagh with her scones, red jam and mug of coffee, Liam, Niall and Ryan busily, like budding engineers building all kinds of Lego.
“Alan standing with his back to the kitchen sink totally at ease enjoying the antics of unspoiled and respectful sons.”
Relatives also paid tribute with Clodagh’s mother Mary placing a treasured family photograph on her coffin.
Gifts for the children included a basketball, sports trophy and for the youngest, Ryan, a woollen toy dog.
Clodagh’s sister Jacqueline choked back the tears as she read out a poem and told mourners life would never be the same again.
She said: “You left us peaceful memories. Your love is still our guide. And although we cannot see you. You are always by our sides.
“Our family chain is broken. And nothing will ever be the same. But as God calls us one by one the chain will link again. Sleep tight.”
Bishop of Kilmore Leo O’Reilly co-led the service.
A memorial service will take place next Tuesday in St Nicholas’ church, Windgap, Co Kilkenny.
Women’s rights organisations, including Women’s Aid in Ireland and the National Women’s Council of Ireland, have criticised Irish media reports for portraying Alan as a victim.
Labour’s shadow education, women and equalities secretary Angela Rayner said: “Hawe is no victim. We have to call out murder and domestic violence.
“He was selfish and committed a despicable crime.”
However the National Suicide Research Foundation has published a briefing on murder-suicide, urging sensitive and factual reporting to minimise harm and increase awareness.
Anyone affected by the incident or other incidents can contact the Samaritans on 116 123.
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