Father and daughter die in workplace incident in Co Offaly

A man and woman have been killed in a workplace accident in Co Offaly. Stock picture

A father and daughter have been killed in a workplace accident at a concrete manufacturing company in Co. Offaly.

The pair, who are Romanian nationals and who had been living in Ireland for a number of years, died following an incident at Banagher Precast Concrete in Banagher shortly before midday on Monday.

The father was in his 50s and his daughter was in her 20s.

It is understood a concrete slab may have fallen during the incident.

Emergency services, including gardaí, attended the scene at the premises shortly after the incident, which happened at around 11.40am.

The Health and Safety Authority (HIQA)has been notified and is investigating the circumstances surrounding the two deaths.

Their bodies were removed to Midlands Regional Hospital Tullamore, where a post-mortem examination will take place.

The deaths have sent shockwaves through the Banagher community.

Offaly TD Tony McCormack said he was “deeply saddened” by the tragedy.

“I am deeply saddened by the tragic news coming from Banagher today, where two people have lost their lives following a workplace incident.

“My thoughts are first and foremost with the family members and loved ones of the man and woman who tragically lost their lives.

In a statement online he said: "I am also thinking of their friends, work colleagues and everyone at Banagher Precast Concrete, as well as the wider Banagher community, at what is an incredibly difficult and shocking time.

“My deepest sympathies go to everyone affected by this terrible tragedy.” 

Banagher Precast Concrete said it is  assisting the Health and Safety Authority with its investigation and would cooperate fully.

It described the incident as unprecedented and expressed its deep sadness at what had happened as well as extending its "deepest sympathies and heartfelt condolences" to the families, friends and colleagues of those who have died.