Vehicle testing firm to appeal safety breach conviction in new year

A vehicle testing firm found guilty of breaching health and safety laws in the testing of a school bus subsequently involved in a fatal crash is expected to appeal its conviction in the new year.

The bus went out of control near Clara, Co Offaly, on April 4, 2006. Michael White, 15, died as a result of injuries sustained.

O’Reilly Commercials Limited, of Ballinalack, Mullingar, Co Westmeath, had pleaded not guilty at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court to four charges of breaching health and safety laws when carrying out an official test on the bus between August 5 and 6, 2005.