Martin Salinger’s death in Cloverhill cell was ‘hugely traumatic’ for his family, funeral told – The Irish Times

The funeral of Martin Salinger, 43, who was stabbed to death in his cell at Cloverhill Prison on October 5, heard that the way he died was “hugely traumatic” for his family.

Salinger was a horse and cart driver and business owner who lived in Ballyfermot in Dublin. He was the fourth generation owner of the family business Dublin Horse Pulled Carriages.

The resident of Dublin’s Liberties was on remand in prison after being charged with drugs and firearms offenses two months ago.

Speaking at the funeral on Saturday, Father Joe Kennedy said: “We are all aware of the tragic circumstances in which Martin lost his young life… It is always difficult to lose a family member, but to lose someone like he has done. the lost Martin is enormously tragic and traumatic.”

“He was above all a family man. “There were two great loves in Martin’s life: the first was his family and the second love in his life was horses, ever since he was a little boy,” he said.

‘His horse and cart friends are here in large numbers today. When I arrived I saw quite a few of them walking down the street. It is a fitting tribute to that part of Martin’s life.”

Reading from the book of condolence, the priest said Salinger was described by those who knew him as “an absolute gentleman,” “a nice guy” and “a gas man who would do anything for you.”

Salinger is survived by his mother Debbie and partner Griff, four children, siblings and a wider family and circle of friends.

His funeral took place at St Catherine’s Church, Meath Street in Dublin, followed by cremation at Mount Jerome.

A man in his 30s was arrested on suspicion of Salinger’s murder and later released without charge while a file was prepared for the Director of Public Prosecutions. A senior investigating officer and a Garda family liaison officer have been appointed.

The Irish Prison Service has sent its condolences to the family of the deceased man.

In an interview with the Project Bowes website in 2015, Mr. Salinger said the horse-drawn carriage was set up by his great-grandfather, Michael Salinger. He said he started working for the company as a teenager and enjoyed showing tourists the sights of the city.