Gerard Keenan, chairman of Keenan’s in Borris, Co Carlow, the site of the fatal industrial accident that claimed the life of Ukrainian native Roman Chmil (33 ), has said his entire staff is still in deep shock today as they start their second day back to work.
“We are all deeply shocked and saddened by this tragic accident,” he said in a statement. “Roman had become a very valuable part of the team and was respected by all his co-workers who are all deeply saddened and shocked. He was in fact one of the first foreign nationals to be employed by Keenan’s in production and had progressed to be part of our capital maintenance team.”
Mr Chmil who worked at the plant for the last five years, was married to Angela and the couple had a six-month-old son, Michael.
The accident occurred shortly before 9am on Monday in the maintenance building while Mr Chmil was working alone on equipment used for cleaning steel.
Mr Chmil was attended by on site first aiders immediately after the accident. The emergency services, a local doctor and a priest were then swiftly called and quickly attended but unfortunately were not able to help him. He was pronounced dead at the scene. Mr Chmil's remains were taken to Waterford Regional Hospital for a post-mortem and gardaí said there was no foul play suspected.
The Health and Safety Authority and the gardaí examined the scene of the accident during the plant closure as part of the investigation into Mr Chmil’s death. Keenan’s co-operated fully with the investigation.
“Our thoughts and prayers are now with Angela and Michael and we will do all we can to support them through this terrible time,” said Mr Keenan.
Green Party Deputy Mary White expressed her shock at Mr Chmil’s death.
“I wish to extend my condolences to the family of the deceased,” she said. “Keenan's has a long and proud history in Borris and I know that the management and staff will be deeply shocked by this accident.”
