A father in his 50s and his daughter in her 20s died following a workplace incident at Banagher Precast Concrete in Banagher, Co Offaly, on September 28. The incident occurred shortly before midday, with emergency services called to the scene at approximately 11.40am.
Victims pronounced dead at the scene
The man and woman were pronounced dead at the scene. It is understood they were Romanian nationals who had been employed at the plant for several years. Their bodies were subsequently transferred to Midlands Regional Hospital Tullamore, where post-mortem examinations are due to take place at a later date.
Company expresses shock and condolences
Banagher Precast Concrete described the incident as "a devastating tragedy for everyone connected with our company," adding that employees were "all in deep shock." In a statement issued to RTE News, the company confirmed that its Board of Directors, management team and staff wished to extend their "deepest sympathies and heartfelt condolences" to the families, friends and colleagues of the deceased.
The firm stated that its immediate priority was providing support to the families of the two employees, while also expressing its gratitude to the emergency services and all those who responded to the tragic incident. The full circumstances surrounding the incident have yet to be established.
Investigation and community reaction
Banagher Precast Concrete confirmed it would work fully alongside all statutory bodies and provide whatever support is necessary as part of the ongoing investigation. The firm stated that the safety and wellbeing of its workforce has always been a fundamental value, deeply ingrained within its day-to-day operations. It described an incident of this magnitude as "unprecedented" for the organisation.
The company has appealed for the privacy of the families, friends and colleagues of those who died to be respected, confirming it will not be releasing further details at this time. Fianna Fáil Offaly TD Tony McCormack extended his condolences following the devastating news.
"I was deeply saddened to hear the tragic news coming from Banagher, where two lives have been lost in a workplace incident," he told the Irish Independent. "My thoughts are first and foremost with the families and loved ones of those who have lost their lives. I can only imagine the shock and heartbreak they are experiencing."
"I am also thinking of their friends, work colleagues and the wider Banagher community at this incredibly difficult time. My deepest sympathies go to everyone affected by this terrible tragedy."
