21/06/2013

Wicklow Council Plead Guilty To H&S Breaches

Wicklow County Council had admitted health and safety breaches in connection with a fire that killed two firefighters in September 2007.

The council had denied four charges of breaching health and safety laws in connection with a fire at derelict factory in Bray, but the plea was changed at the conclusion of an eight day trial.

Mark O'Shaughnessy and Brian Murray lost their lives while tackling the blaze on September 26, almost six years ago.

It is understood the charges arose after it emerged that not enough firefighters were sent to tackle to blaze, which was described as resembling a plane crash.

A representative of the council was re-arraigned and pleaded guilty to three charges of failing to ensure the safety of employees, failing to update a safety statement and failing to provide adequate training.

Sentencing was adjourned until July 30.

(MH/JP)

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