Tributes paid to victim of Rochfortbridge workplace accident

The victim of a workplace accident at a premises in Rochfortbridge yesterday morning has been described as "one of the most genuine people that you could ever meet".

Father of two Mark Walsh, an Offaly native living in Laois, was pronounced dead at the scene after he was involved in an incident at a property in Rochfortbridge early yesterday.

Mr Walsh's remains were brought to Midlands Regional Hospital Tullamore where a post-mortem will take place.

Laois councillor Marie Tuohy, who is a former work colleague of Mr Walsh, said that everyone who knew him is "utterly devastated" by his passing.

“Mark was one of the most genuine people that you could ever meet. A lovely person and everyone who knew him is devastated by this awful news.

“He loved his family so much and my heart goes out to all of them. My thoughts are with them. It is just so sad.”

Gardaí issued a statement earlier saying: “Gardaí were alerted to a fatal workplace incident at a commercial premises in Rochfortbridge, Co Westmeath, yesterday morning, Monday April 15.

“A male in his 40s was pronounced deceased at the scene.

“His body has been taken to the mortuary at Midland Regional Hospital Tullamore, where a post-mortem examination will take place in due course.

“The Health and Safety Authority (HSA) has been notified and attended the scene.

“A file will be prepared for the coroner.”

The deceased is survived by his wife Claire Ann and children, Fiadh and Daniel.