The Taoiseach Enda Kenny has expressed his sympathy and shock at the events which occurred at the Boston Marathon last night. He was speaking to reporters this morning on his way to Government Buildings.

Three people were killed and hundreds other injured, some critically, when the explosions occurred at the finish line of the Boston Marathon yesterday. As of yet, no one has claimed responsibility for the bombings.

According to the Irish Examiner, the Taoiseach has expressed his sympathy for a city which he described as “so Irish.”

"This is an act of insanity," he said. "And when so many people enjoyed the preparation for that wonderful race and the occasion itself, and we sympathise with the people of Boston, in a city that is so Irish.”

The Taoiseach continued: "This is a tragedy, and I do hope that the authorities from federal level down to local level will get to the root of this and bring those perpetrators of this particular crime to justice in the shortest possible time."

Tánaiste Eamon Gilmore also expressed his sympathy and urged those who were worrying about family members to get in contact with the Department of Foreign Affairs: "My thoughts are with the people and the authorities in Boston as they continue to deal with this tragic situation", he said. "I know that there were a significant number of Irish participating or involved in the Marathon, and my Department - in particular the Irish Consulate in Boston - is doing all that it can to make contact with our nationals to check on their situation. So far, fortunately, all have been safely accounted for.”

President Michael D. Higgins has also extended his condolences: “The occurrence of the explosions during the course of the Boston Marathon is deeply shocking and is a very sad end to what should have been a day of great joy and achievement for the thousands, including many Irish citizens, who participate in and watch this widely supported annual event.”