Tributes paid as investigations continue into death at UCC

As two investigations continue into the death of a member of the governing body of UCC, tributes have been paid to the man who worked at the university for 27 years.

Gardaí and the Health and Safety Authority are continuing their investigations into the death of Frank McGrath, 58, which took place at the university’s main campus at 4.20pm on Tuesday.

Mr McGrath died after he was crushed under a cherry picker a walkway near the Western Road entrance.

A UCC spokeswoman said Mr McGrath, who was elected to the governing body twice, was a most respected member of its building and estates department.

She said that, while on the governing body, Mr McGrath, who lived in the Richmond Hill area, “shared his wisdom, pragmatism and, above all, his loyalty to, and pride in, UCC”.

“The university is deeply saddened and wishes to extend its sincere sympathy to his family and colleagues,” the spokeswoman added.

The married father of one was very fond of music.

He was a regular at the Corner House bar on Coburg St which is known for its live music sessions.

Bar owner Fergal MacGabhann said staff and customers were extremely shocked and saddened at Mr McGrath’s death.

“We’re all devastated. Frank was cherished by the musicians, customers and staff alike,” Mr MacGabhann said. “He was part of our family and it’s like a large chunk has been ripped out of that family.”

A garda spokesman said they were liaising with the HSE and talking to people who were on campus at the time in an effort to establish how the accident occurred.

Once the investigation is complete, gardaí will prepare a file for an inquest.

Family and friends will gather at Jerh O’Connor’s Funeral Home, Coburg St, at 7pm tonight to pay tribute to Mr McGrath.

He will be cremated at the Rocky Island crematorium, Ringaskiddy, at 3pm tomorrow .

His family have asked for mourners to make a donation to Marymount Hospice instead of sending flowers.