Friends and business associates of Galway civil engineer Anthony Higgins have expressed shock and sadness at his fatal shooting in the Saudi Arabian capital, Riyadh, this week.
Mr Higgins (59), who had been working in Saudi Arabia in the engineering and construction industry for over 25 years, was a member of a well-known family in Mervue, Galway, and was a brother of the poet, Rita Ann Higgins.
His wife, Joan, lives in Rahoon, and their two grown-up daughters, Siobhán and Nicole, live in Belfast and London respectively.
It is understood that Mr Higgins returned to Ireland frequently, and was due to travel to his home city in about three weeks' time.
Two of his brothers are prominent figures in Galway public life.
One brother, Joe Higgins, is a successful businessman who is currently chairman of Galway Airport. He is also a long standing member of Galway Chamber, which owns the airport.
The other brother, Mairtín, is a team manager with Mervue United Football Club.
Rita Ann Higgins was on a walking holiday in Czechoslovakia when she was informed of her brother's death, and returned to Galway yesterday.
"He was fine human being and a lovely person," she said.
In a statement read out last night on the family's behalf, Ms Higgins said that the family had been in contact with the Department of Foreign Affairs and the Irish Embassy in Saudi Arabia.
"As of yet, we have no definite information on when Tony's remains will be returned to us. This is a tragedy that will haunt us for the rest of our lives," Ms Higgins said.
"We ask you on behalf of Tony's wife, Joan, and family to allow us the dignity to grieve in private."
Politicians of all persuasions expressed their deepest sympathy to the family of Mr Higgins's last night.
Galway Chamber of Commerce said that it was "deeply shocked at the tragic death" and extended its sympathies to Mr Higgins' wife and family.
