Tributes to employee ‘well liked by all staff’

THE man who was killed in yesterday’s chemical explosion was described by friends and co-workers as a perfect gentleman with a passion for golf.

Liam Nodwell, 58, was originally from Mayfield, but he and his wife Síle, and their son Brian, had moved to a new house near Glanmire village, on the outskirts of the city, in recent years.

He worked at Corden PharmaChem as a process operator since 1990. He was on the night shift yesterday when tragedy struck.

His stunned colleagues began arriving at the factory from early morning, where news of the tragedy was broken to them.

They were visibly upset. Some stood in the car park in tears.

Production has been suspended and staff spent the day assisting company officials as the Health and Safety and Environmental Protection Agency probes got under way.

Corden managing director Paudie Burke, who visited Mr Nodwell’s widow Síle at her home yesterday, said Liam was a highly valued member of staff.

“He was a popular, diligent and conscientious employee. He was genuine and well liked by all members of staff and will be sadly missed.”

Mr Nodwell played golf at Mallow Golf Club and a spokesman said they are devastated following his death.

“We are deeply saddened. He was a nice man. Such a gentleman.”

Mayfield-based city councillor John Kelleher said the prayers of the parish are with Liam’s family.

“It is a terrible tragedy and everyone is in a state of shock,” he said.