Father and daughter killed in Banagher workplace incident named locally
A father and daughter who were tragically killed in a workplace incident at Banagher Precast Concrete have been named locally as Denisa Mihaela (49) and Ioan Chinez (24).
The pair, who were originally from Romania, were pronounced dead at the scene of the incident on Monday morning.
A garda spokesperson confirmed that a post mortem would take place at Midlands Regional Hospital Tullamore.
The Health and Safety Authority (HSA) is continuing to investigate the fatal incident which the company described as a "devastating tragedy".
Staff at the plant are said to be in deep shock at the tragic death of their colleagues.
A statement issued by the company extended the "heartfelt sympathies" of the Board of Directors, management team and employees of Banagher Precast Concrete to the "families, friends and colleagues of those who have lost their lives".
Banagher Concrete Precast said its "immediate priority" is supporting the families of our colleagues and ensuring they "receive every assistance and support available during this unimaginably difficult time".
The company also expressed its "sincere gratitude" to the emergency services and all those who responded to the incident for their "professionalism, compassion and assistance".
Banagher Precast Concrete confirmed that it will "co-operate fully with all statutory bodies" and will continue to provide "every assistance required as part of the investigation process".
Local Cllr John Leahy said there was an "eerie quietness" in Banagher following the tragic workplace incident.
In offering his sympathies to the management and staff of Banagher Precast Concrete, the Cllr said it was "hard to comprehend" the sadness which must be within the company at this time.
He added that a third family member also worked with the company.
"I am sure the community will give their full support to the family in the coming times.
"Banagher Precast Concrete is a major contributor to the local community which will be naturally impacted by this incident," Cllr Leahy said.
Meanwhile, Offaly Fianna Fáil TD Tony McCormack said he was "deeply saddened" to hear of the tragic news in Banagher.
"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 today.
"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," Deputy McCormack said.