Colette Byrne
In 2018, Colette was honored with the Everyday Hero, People of the Year Award for founding the online community widow.ie. She created this platform following the tragic death of her husband, Peter, in a traffic accident in August 2008. At the time of his passing, their daughter, Kate, was just three years old.
A qualified Pharmaceutical Technician, Colette now works in the accounts department of her family’s quarry business. Through widow.ie, she has built a compassionate and supportive community where those experiencing bereavement can connect, share, and find solace.
Widowhood Touches Every Kind of Life
Behind some of the world's most recognisable faces, grief is no stranger.
When a partner dies, life can feel as though it has simply stopped....
Mother’s Day After Bereavement: Supporting Children Missing Their Mum
Mother’s Day can be a complicated time for families after a bereavement. Mother’s Day after bereavement often brings a mixture of emotions for children...
Apply for a Child Passport After a Parent Dies in Ireland
How to Apply for a Child Passport After a Parent Dies in Ireland
Planning a holiday with children can be an important step for families...
Bereaved Partner’s Pension Ireland 2026
Bereavement can bring many practical questions at a time when people are already coping with loss. One area that often causes confusion is the...
Funeral Delays in Ireland as Post-Mortem Service Faces Staff Shortage
Funeral delays in Ireland are becoming an increasing concern for bereaved families. In recent weeks, coroners and pathologists have warned that staffing shortages within...
Report on Death and Bereavement What It Means for Irish Families
Deaths in Ireland are rising faster than supports
A new report on death and bereavement warns that the number of deaths in Ireland will rise...
Health Insurance Counselling Support You Might Already Have
If you’re grieving, your private health insurance may already cover counselling. Many Irish policies include support—here’s how to check.
Forensic Collision Investigation Delays Are Failing Irish Families
Delays in forensic crash investigations are leaving Irish families without answers, compounding the grief after sudden and tragic road deaths.
Widowed Pension and Insurance Complaints Law Change
Important updates to the Ombudsman process are now law in Ireland. For widowed people facing issues with social welfare, pensions, mortgage protection, or life insurance claims, these changes promise faster and fairer outcomes.
Bereaved Partner’s Pension: Ireland to Include Cohabiting Partners
The Irish government is introducing the Bereaved Partner’s Pension to extend bereavement benefits to long-term cohabiting partners. The move follows a 2024 Supreme Court ruling and has been broadly welcomed, though advocacy groups are calling for further consultation and key amendments.