B&Q safety breach resulted in fatality

DIY franchise B&Q Ireland has pleaded guilty to a health and safety breach which resulted in a customer’s death. Michael O’Rourke was hit by a half-tonne fencing panel bundle that had fallen 4.3 metres.

Ronald Metcaffe, on behalf of B&Q, pleaded guilty at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court to failing to ensure a safe workplace resulting in the death of Mr O’Rourke at a store in Tallaght in March 2009.

Mr Metcaffe offered Mr O’Rourke’s family his “deepest sympathy” on behalf of the company. It has paid a claim made by Mr O’Rourke’s family.

Sentencing was adjourned