Tributes pour in for Kilkenny man killed in workplace accident

Tributes are being paid to a much-loved family man who was killed in a workplace accident on Saturday.

Seamus Byrne was fatally injured in a workplace accident at a water treatment plant in County Mayo.

Originally from Larchfield in Kilkenny City Mr Byrne was living in Cliften, Co Galway with his family.

Mayor of Kilkenny, John Coonan said that Seamus' family are in the thoughts and prayers of the people of St Patrick's Parish and the wider Kilkenny community.

"I was shocked and saddened to hear of this tragedy, our thoughts and prayers are with Seamus' family at this sad time," he said.

Declan White, CEO of Veolia in Ireland said:

"Our heartfelt thoughts are with the family and loved ones of our colleague, Seamus Byrne, at this very difficult time. Seamus was a valued and much-loved member of a close-knit team and will be hugely missed by those who knew and worked with him.

"We are working with Uisce Éireann and the Health and Safety Authority to investigate this tragic incident and are remaining in close contact with his family and colleagues to offer every support we can."

Mr Byrne is remembered by his colleagues as 'a lovely, kind man', 'a true gentleman' and 'an absolute pleasure to work with'. 

Me Byrne is missed by his heartbroken wife and children, his parents and siblings, extended family, neighbours and a large circle of friends. His funeral will take place in Cliften, Co Galway on Thursday.