The teenage boy who collapsed and died in a Co Westmeath school today has been named.
Tony Parker (16), Nahad, Mount Temple, died after he collapsed during class at around midday at Moate Community School.
Emergency services were alerted at 12.20pm to the incident at the school but despite efforts to revive him, the boy was declared dead at the scene.
In a statement released this afternoon, the school said the sudden death had caused great sadness and shock.
"Tony began his fifth year course yesterday and was a young man of great character and all the attributes of a true gentleman," the school said. "The death leaves a very deep and palpable sense of loss."
Tony's parents Geraldine and Tom, sister Edel and brother Tom were notified of the death shortly after he collapsed.
Special supports for pupils are in place including counselling.
"Our school is in a state of shock and we have implemented our procedures to support the school community at this time," the school said.
"Our sense of loss is a shadow of what Tony's parents, Geraldine and Tom, sister Edel and brother Paul are experiencing. We extend our heartfelt sympathy at this very tragic time."