Local TD pays tribute to late adventurer Ian McKeever

Local TD Denis Naughten has said he was shocked and saddened by the passing of Ian McKeever, the well-known adventurer and charity fundraiser who died when he was struck by lightning on Mount Kilimanjaro. McKeever was leading a group of over 20 Irish people towards the summit of Africa's tallest mountain when the tragedy occurred. A message on the facebook page of 'Ian McKeever's Kilimanjaro Achievers' last night (Wednesday) confirmed his passing. Mr McKeever (42) was a Co. Wicklow native who previously worked as a traffic announcer with AA Roadwatch. Deputy Naughten said he had participated in a fundraising 'Santa Cycle' which had been organised by Mr McKeever approximately 10-12 years ago. "It was an annual cycle that he organised from Dublin to Galway and one year myself, John O'Gara and Tony McManus cycled with him into Roscommon town," said Deputy Naughten. "(Ian) was a lovely guy who did a huge amount of work to raise money for, and raise awareness of, good causes over the years. I was shocked to hear of his passing at such a young age."