Taoiseach (Irish Prime Minister) Micheál Martin said he is “numbed and shocked at the horrific road crash”.
“Our thoughts and prayers are with the families and friends of these young people, and those injured.
“We also think of our first responders, who worked so professionally in truly devastating circumstances.”
Tánaiste (deputy prime minister) said: “A veil of deep sadness and shock has come over our country this morning.”
Fianna Fáil councillor Shane McGuinness said he lives close to the scene of the accident.
“It is a very dangerous stretch of road, with bad bends and no public lighting,” he told BBC News NI.
“The weather was very bad last night.
“This is a real tragedy and I send my heartfelt condolences to the families of the victims,” he said.
Dundalk TD (member of parliament) Ruairí Ó Murchú said his heart goes out to the families and friends impacted by the ‘horrific’ crash at Gibstown last night.
The Sinn Féin deputy said the “dreadful and shocking news” has stunned the area.
“It is heartbreaking, awful and tragic for the loved ones of those who have lost their lives and for those who have been taken to hospital.”
He also said he was thinking about the emergency services.
“There are difficult and dark days ahead for the families and friends who have lost loved ones but I know that the whole of Louth will carry them and support them in every way possible as they face this unimaginable tragedy,” he said.
